Course Introduction

Introduction to Peace Studies  IIPS 30101

Goals

1.  To be able to think deeply, write smartly and debate effectively about issues of violence and peace.
2. To find out “what is peace” and “how do we get there”.
3. To assess the terrorism moment “we” find ourselves in and to test its meaning for the prospect of/for peace (with security).
4. To be critically reflective – especially on what pulls and pushes on our own sensibilities about peace.
   

How we get to these goals? 

1. Think, write, debate……especially for the major puzzler assignments
2. What is peace & getting there… 6 ½ weeks after the focus on violence
3. Assess the moment…
1. Read current events, op-ed pieces, books
2. Liste
3. Write
4. Critically reflective
1. Push yourself and others to talk and write

Assessing violence, terrorism, war and our moment in history

Professor’s Role:

1. Present various ways of discussing and understanding violence
2. Focus on social science understandings of violence
3. Ask obnoxious questions and pose puzzles
   

Your Role:

1. Read the “competing” books
2. Choose your grading scheme
3. Reflect, write, discuss, reassess
   

Examining the ways to peace

Covered Topics

1.  Personal non-violence
2. Non-violent direct action for social change
3. Conflict resolution-transformation efforts
4. Peace as dealing with the violence problem in a structural sense

What we don’t cover

1.  Local, domestic violence…murder, crime, gangs, etc.
2. Arguments based exclusively in justice or poverty terms.
3. Very much that the way to peace is to be a person with a heart of peace…or who is effective in praying for peace.

Writing on the themes, etc.

• Your task is to get your “credits” to add up to 100%.
• 1 - 3 puzzlers from which to choose
• The midterm essay, plus the final exam - big questions
• Action/service learning via “Take Ten”
  

Other issues

1.  Attendance and class participation
2. Staying on schedule and being interactive with the material - i.e. the classes, the readings, etc.
3. Talking to others – discuss your ideas with people who let you say what is on your mind, and who might challenge you to change your thinking.

The people in the course

Your questions and concerns

•  It may be helpful to keep a running list of the questions you encounter throughout the semester.
• Return to them often to see what you can answer or explore.
• Find people with whom to talk about your questions!