Equilibrium isn’t a state of harmony.

Peace and harmony is when multiple potential influences exist without coming into conflict. Everyone agrees, or agrees to disagree.

Sometimes “agreeing to disagree” simply isn’t possible. Sometimes something is too important for people to just believe as they will without being challenged. Some things are just worth fighting for.

It takes immense wisdom to know what those things are and when to debate, argue or fight, however.

When it comes to conflict resulting from a basic difference of world view some people possess the innate wisdom, even at a young age, to know when to be content in their own beliefs and let it be. Others refuse to back down or are perhaps simply afraid of not being heard or understood. Sadly, more often than not, people are just too apathetic to participate in an argument.

In some cases one can sympathise with an aversion to get involved in a debate, especially when your own established beliefs are in question. Very often people just don’t have the words to properly articulate and defend their beliefs. It’s also emotionally and physically draining and people would certainly rather not exert themselves, possibly put their foot in their mouths, or even cause offence.

Equilibrium isn’t established by being too fearful or polite to engage someone in a conversation deeper than the oddities of the current weather.

As it is in the sciences, or even in other fields that make use of the concept, equilibrium can only be maintained if two or more forces are acting on one another. There can be no balance if there is only one force.

(Unstable?) Equilibrium

Some of the key words you’ll find in definitions of equilibrium (e.g. dictionary.com, Wikipedia) are opposing/competing forces, influences, and powers.

Equilibrium is achieved when competing forces are balanced.

One does not influence or exert force by being passive. In order to maintain balance opposing points of view must be discussed, even fought over if needs be.