Our planet and World War III
The present study will examine the relationship between the planet Earth and the Third World War.
The global peace is under threat due to armed conflicts in multiple regions of the world. The phenomenon of warfare has been a constant throughout the annals of human history, including the two world wars. The first atomic bombs in history were deployed during the Second World War. In the contemporary era, it is imperative to cease hostilities in Ukraine and Gaza in order to ensure the preservation of the global ecosystem.
It is evident that a multitude of experiences, ranging from international conflicts to domestic disputes, have their origins in human anger and animosity. The emotional responses in question are rooted in the concept of attachment, which, in turn, is a consequence of a lack of knowledge or awareness, otherwise known as 'ignorance'. The disregard of the peace and happiness of others, in addition to a lack of respect, has been identified as a primary cause of conflict.
The cultivation of inner peace has been identified as a pivotal factor in the attainment of global peace, international relations, and domestic tranquility. The metaphorical significance of a candle is that it can illuminate and dispel darkness. In a similar vein, a solitary tranquil mind has the capacity to inspire millions of hearts to embrace peace. The ability to communicate in a sincere manner has been demonstrated to be an effective tool in the elimination of both ignorance and misunderstanding. The capacity for authentic communication engenders a profound comprehension of others, thereby enabling the sharing of analogous sentiments, aspirations and human qualities.
Consequently, it is incumbent upon world leaders to establish a forum for such discourse. It is conceivable that the parties in question could be granted an opportunity for a period of shared time, during which they would be at liberty to engage in discourse of a relaxed and agreeable nature. It is hypothesized that such an experience would engender a sense of familiarity and a willingness to engage in deliberations concerning global matters, with the understanding that they bear a collective responsibility of significant magnitude.
In the event of a third world war, the destructive potential of the two atomic bombs deployed during the second world war would be multiplied a hundredfold. This would result in the complete annihilation of our planet and all life forms on it within minutes.
In this pivotal moment, it is incumbent upon world leaders to adopt a novel mindset, eschewing the customary insularity and parochialism that have hitherto characterised their conduct. Instead, they must assume the global responsibility of safeguarding the entire planet, guided by a sense of universal solidarity and a profound commitment to world peace as the sole means of ensuring the survival of our planet.
It is imperative to acknowledge that the pursuit of dominance, the adoption of colonial policies and the marginalisation of certain groups have been primary catalysts in igniting human conflict. Consequently, the establishment of a paradigm wherein diversity, multiculturalism and multi-religiousness can coexist is of the essence. This would provide a prospective outlook for the future of the global family and social community.
The establishment of world peace must first be achieved through the internal transformation of individuals, with the cultivation of inner peace serving as the fundamental source for this process. This state of mind is personal in nature rather than being collective in essence. It is incumbent upon each individual to cultivate inner peace for the benefit of global peace, the survival of the planet and its inhabitants.
In the 21st. century, the pursuit of highly advanced weaponry, particularly nuclear armaments, inevitably gives rise to the necessity of their utilization in a conflict that can only be concluded with the ultimate confrontation: global annihilation. A war of such magnitude would inevitably result in widespread destruction and suffering, leaving no victors and numerous victims. Even those who might survive the conflict would find themselves confronted with a desolate and uninhabitable landscape, rendered infertile by the effects of the war.
It is imperative to recognise the inherent destructive capacity of these weapons, which are characterised by their irreversible nature. Consequently, it is of the utmost importance to priorities the prevention of any use of such arms.
It is evident that the promotion of world peace and the establishment of peace within any nation, state or country must be initiated by fostering inner peace, cultivating a peaceful culture and society, and fostering a profound understanding of justice.
It is imperative that we draw lessons from history and eschew human conflicts engendered by an obstinate reluctance to confront religious and ethnic disparities, which frequently obscure the underlying objective: the pursuit of supremacy, the imposition of domination, and the impoverishment of foreign nations endowed with abundant precious raw materials. In lieu of the aforementioned, it is imperative to cultivate the capacity for authentic human vision, characterised by profound respect for all manifestations of life. It is acknowledged that the enhancement of our collective humanity is contingent upon our recognition of multiculturalism and multi-religiousness, accompanied by a profound embrace of diverse faiths and ethical frameworks.
A comprehensive understanding of the perils confronting our planet should serve as a catalyst for the implementation of remedial measures and the cultivation of fortitude, as opposed to engendering trepidation.
Fear is a subjective emotion that can be a response to both real and imagined threats.
The experience may prove overwhelming for the individual, with the potential to engender unrealistic ideas, feelings of unease, and an incapacity to act in a constructive manner. Conversely, courage is derived from a realistic awareness and comprehension, which facilitate the navigation of adverse emotions such as fear and enable perseverance, patience, tolerance, and wisdom to prevail. The propagation of erroneous information has the capacity to engender a state of fear in those who are exposed to it. Conversely, realistic knowledge is defined as a precise and accurate comprehension of a given situation.
The promotion of courage and the development of the skills required to effectively address challenges are of paramount importance. In light of the evident peril confronting our planet, it is imperative to transcend the dominion of fear and adopt a more composed and rational approach. A realistic and compassionate understanding of the planet and its future has the potential to engender courage, positive thinking and concrete ideas for action. The transformation of fear-based energy into courage and effective action is a process that enables us to address the challenges facing our planet with greater efficacy.
The prospect of a third world war is a topic which is the subject of much debate and speculation. Nevertheless, there are a number of scenarios and potential risks that could lead to global conflict.
To illustrate this point, one need only consider the potential for an escalation in geopolitical tensions and rivalries between major powers such as the United States, China and Russia, which could result in an increased risk of global conflict. It is evident that tensions in regions such as the Middle East, Asia and Africa, which have been so severely impacted and exploited, and even in Europe itself, have the potential to escalate into more widespread conflict. It is asserted that acts of aggression directed towards critical infrastructure, including but not limited to cyberattacks, have the potential to engender a state of global instability.
The prevailing economic and climatic crises have the potential to exacerbate existing tensions between nations, resulting in the implementation of protectionist measures that may prove to be counterproductive.
The utilisation of diplomatic channels and international communication mechanisms has been demonstrated to play a pivotal role in the prevention of potential conflicts. The establishment of cooperative frameworks between nations regarding global issues, such as climate change and security, has the potential to contribute to the reduction of tensions. Investing in peace and stability has been demonstrated to be an effective strategy for the prevention of conflict.
To summarise, it is not possible to predict if or when the third and final world war will break out. Nevertheless, it is imperative to commit to the prevention of conflict and the promotion of social justice, which are fundamental conditions for the establishment of peace and authentic international cooperation.
In order to achieve a state of universal peace, it is imperative that concerted efforts are made on a global scale to eradicate violence, promote justice and encourage brotherhood through the medium of dialogue, respect for diversity and a shared commitment to peace.
Similar appeals have been made by religious leaders, such as Pope Francis, who in 2020 hosted an interfaith meeting for peace in Rome and who has always fought for justice and peace.
The appeal was further endorsed by the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who in 2020 appealed for an end to violence and the promotion of peace and justice.
It is notable that appeals of a similar nature have been issued by religious leaders. For instance, in 2020, Pope Francis hosted an interfaith meeting for peace in Rome, and he has always been a staunch advocate of equity and social justice. In addition, the importance of perpetuating an awareness of historical events is emphasised by the establishment of initiatives such as the United Nations International Day of Peace. The objective of this day is to encourage the cultivation of a global culture of peace.
The following themes are of particular significance: the cessation of armed conflict, the protection of human dignity, the combatting of inequality, the ensuring of a dignified life for all, and the safeguarding of the environment.
The following elements are to be considered in order to formulate a call for peace:
The call for peace should support the resolution of conflicts through inclusive and constructive dialogue rather than violence.
2. The concept of peace is inextricably linked to that of justice. The former is predicated on the fundamental principle of respecting the dignity of every human being and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.
3. It is evident that appeals for peace frequently entail a congregation of religious leaders who engage in collective prayer and pledge their commitment to the establishment of a more equitable and tranquil global environment.
4. It is asserted that the fundamental purpose of the appeals is to emphasise the necessity of bringing an end to war and violence. The appeals urge the replacement of instruments of war with instruments of peace and justice.
5. It is evident that a considerable number of appeals acknowledge the inextricable correlation between the well-being of the planet and the establishment of peace.
Moreover, these appeals underscore the paramount necessity to ensure the preservation of the planet and the safeguarding of the environment. The risks inherent in the prospect of a modern world war are manifold. These include the escalation of current regional conflicts, the potential use of nuclear, chemical or other weapons, greater global instability and catastrophic economic, human and social consequences.
The primary risks pertain to the competition between the predominant global powers of the United States, China and Russia, which may encompass their respective allies, in addition to the possibility of nuclear escalation.
It is imperative to acknowledge the plethora of potential hazards that could arise from a global conflict. These include, but are not limited to, widespread economic disruption, the collapse of supply chains, escalating poverty and hunger, and the disintegration of diplomacy and international institutions. In the event of a third world war, the consequences could be so dire as to lead to the extinction of life on this unique and exquisite earthly paradise.
The is intended to present the author's reflections and concerns regarding the potential for global conflict and the prospects for world peace.
Gedun Tharchin (Rome, Italy)
This text was originally published on 27 September 2025 and subsequently updated on 10 November 2025.
