Thursday Thought — Victims invariably resist violence and other forms of abuse

Alongside each history of violence there runs a parallel history of prudent, determined, and often creative resistance. The manner in which victims resist depends on the unique combination of dangers and opportunities present in their particular circumstances. Victims typically take into account that perpetrators will become even more violent for any act of defiance. Consequently,… Continue reading Thursday Thought — Victims invariably resist violence and other forms of abuse

The ‘just war’ theory: how it relates to divorcing an abuser

Proponents of the ‘just war’ theory believe that aggression against others can be justified under certain conditions. Cicero was the first to argue for such an approach, but St. Augustine (AD 354-430) set forth its classic formulation: Just cause—a defensive war, fought only to resist aggression. Just intent—fought to secure justice, not for revenge, conquest,… Continue reading The ‘just war’ theory: how it relates to divorcing an abuser