I think the reality is that we can never all share the same beliefs or uphold the same values. Because of that, there will almost always be some form of “us” and “them,” whether we like it or not.

And when those differences exist, conflict tends to follow — sometimes within “us,” sometimes against “them", a recurring part of human nature.

Yes, in theory we could all live differently and coexist peacefully. But humans are an insatiable species. We naturally compare ourselves to others and strive to be better in one way or another.

That drive pushes us to explore, compete, and challenge what already exists. Without that tension, without people taking different sides, pushing different ideas, and defending different values — progress might stall. Many of the systems, innovations, and even civilizations we know today were shaped by people choosing sides and pursuing what they believed in.

So, while simply living differently sounds peaceful, history suggests otherwise.