War: The magnified form of aggression!

In light of the war going on in Ukraine at this time as well as all wars from the beginning of life I would like us to discuss how social psychology defines aggression and the theories that explain it. For this assignment, I would like you to read an intriguing correspondence between Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud (In J. Strachey, Ed., 1932/1964,The standard edition of the complete psychological works of Sigmund Freud,Vol. 22, pp. 197-215, London: Hogarth) relating to the question of war, and whether it is a fact of life; totally unavoidable, and write a letter responding to either or both authors. You are encouraged to express agreement or disagreement with their positions and to comment on the perspectives on human aggression that each offered. (For those who like to read the actual letters, please find them in your assignment section).

In order to receive full credit you must show an understanding of the causes of violence and whether you see it as instinctive, learned or due to response to frustration and deprivation. , hint: Was Einstein and/or Freud optimistic or pessimistic about our destiny? Are we destined to wage war because of experiences (nurture), some unfortunate disposition (nature), or a combination of both? read on:

In his initial letter,Einstein pondered whether humanity could ever be free from the threat of war. He blamed war on both "the political power-hunger" of governments and humanity's"lust for hatred and destruction." He asked Freud for insights on how to eliminate armed conflicts. Freud's response emphasized culture and instinct. Violence evolved from conflict between individuals and could only be thwarted by laws created by communities. Organized communities, argued Freud, use violence to settle disputes because of humanity's self-preserving (erotic) and destructive(death) instincts. Freud concluded his letter by asking Einstein a question:"Why do you and I and so many other people rebel so violently against war?"

https://www.public.asu.edu/~jmlynch/273/documents/FreudEinstein.pdf