War mathematics: From human Sufferings to economic and biodiversity losses

Abstract

Wars have created more problems than bringing solutions. By applying tit-for-tat tactics, rancorous strategies, formula politics and hateful approaches, humanity has not only faced humanitarian crises in immense proportions but also suffered grave losses to economy and biodiversity. War mathematics, a maiden approach to calculate the total loss - human, economic and environmental, caused by a given war and providing alternatives of peace, nonviolence and brotherhood that would have reduced the losses, has been worked out. Five cases studies ranging from major to medium level wars and smaller incidence of violence, have been provided with facts and figures. The so-called war on terror in the aftermath of 9/11, war between Ukraine and Russia, Israel and Palestine and two small incidences of terror and counter-terrorism attacks that in absence of alternates nonviolence multiplied human sufferings manifold. The data reveals that the number of human sufferings besides economic and biodiversity losses were many times more by violence versus violence strategies than it would have been by nonviolence or alternate approaches. The study also takes a dig into the history of conflicts, discusses underlying reasons and suggests the ways forward for durable peace. Change in the mindset by peace education and other integrated approaches based on justice, equality and inclusivity that would not only reduce perpetual conflicts, hence the consequent human sufferings, but also lay the foundation of a new era of peace and nonviolence are the other aspects of current study.