Peace Studies

Violence. Conflict. Inequality. The world can be an unjust and violent place. But what exactly is violence and what are its causes? Is violence and, perhaps most importantly, can it be stopped?  If so, how? This course will explore these questions by introducing students to the major themes, concepts and issues in the discipline of Peace Studies. Studying figures like, Dr. Martin Luther King jr. and Gandhi, we will learn how to be active peacemakers and build a better world through the way of active nonviolence. 

World peace sounds great in theory/ But how do we actually bring it about? This course will show students how. Outlining a step by step guide for building a better world, it will provide students with practical tools they need to work for peace in their daily lives.  Focused on personal and interpersonal peace, students will learn how to cultivate inner peace through spiritual practices like mediation, have difficult conversations with those they disagree with and practice restorative justice through circle process. Most importantly, they will learn how to practically apply these skills in their personal relationships and vocational careers. The basic peacebuilding skills acquired in this class are not just for experts. They are critical for everyone as we all must confront the challenges of navigating a diverse and polarized world.