"So the first thing you need to do about conflict is to prevent it, and the best way of preventing it is by dealing with the question of poverty"
- James Wolfensohn
About this Quote
This quote by James Wolfensohn stresses the importance of avoiding dispute before it occurs. He suggests that the best method to do this is to deal with the root cause of many conflicts: hardship. Hardship can lead to feelings of desperation and despondence, which can in turn cause violence and dispute. By dealing with poverty, we can lower the likelihood of conflict taking place in the first place. This can be done through efforts such as providing access to education, health care, and financial opportunities. By buying these areas, we can develop a more equitable and tranquil society. Wolfensohn's quote serves as a suggestion that we need to take proactive actions to prevent dispute, instead of simply reacting to it after it has actually currently occurred.
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations. Expect the best of yourself, and then do what is necessary to make it a reality"