War toys

Based on the premise that the needs of war are formed in the human mind, it becomes important not to plant such seeds in the minds of children by providing them with war toys and war games;

Noting that toy soldiers, toy guns and tanks and all war games make children think of war as an acceptable part of life and a way of settling conflicts:

When children play with war toys and engage in war games, they only see the fun and excitement. They do not see the horror. In real life the dead do not get up again, and

Noting further that it is impossible to assess the permanent, psychological, preconditioning effect of such activities on the future adult, Therefore be it resolved:

That steps be taken to halt the manufacture, sale and distribution of war toys and war games. This can be accomplished by:

1. Educating the toy industry (There exists an enormous alternative market for toys creatively promoting peaceful approaches to conflict).
2. Educating the local community by working with the school system and other appropriate agencies.

Citizens exercising their right to instruct their legislative representatives on every level of government to promulgate and promote laws prohibiting the manufacture, sale and distribution of war toys and war games.

Board of Directors 1990

Suggested academic reference

'War toys', Humanists International, Board of Directors, 1990