If it is our aim to establish a world order in which nonviolence and peace prevail, then it is helpful - even essential - to understand the nature of violence. Many believe violence is such a fundamental expression of human nature that we will never be free of war. I wish to argue against this view. The analysis that follows will focus on these issues: defining violence; effects of violence; varieties of violence; causes and consequences of violence; and controlling violence.

This essay is in three Parts. Part 1 surveys some ideas about what water is - as a substance in its own right, and as an entity of major significance and symbolic importance. Part 2 explores basic considerations about the value of nature and its components. Part 3 applies findings from Parts 1 and 2 to thinking about water, with reference to water management issues facing humanity today.