Peace & Conflict Studies

Peace and conflict studies is a social science field that identifies and analyses violent and nonviolent behaviours as well as the structural mechanisms attending social conflicts with a view towards understanding those processes which lead to a more desirable human condition. A variation on this, peace studies (irenology), is an interdisciplinary effort aiming at the prevention, de-escalation, and solution of conflicts by peaceful means, thereby seeking 'victory' for all parties involved in the conflict.

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More About Peace & Conflict Studies

“Central to our concept of Peace and Justice Studies is the notion of justice. We recognize a difference between "negative peace," the absence of open hostilities, and "positive peace," a situation of just and harmonious relations between individuals and/or peoples. We cannot achieve true peace - positive peace - without justice.” 
(Provided By: Manhattan College)

“Peacebuilding and Development studies equips students to think critically, clearly, and creatively about the most pressing global challenges and provides an opportunity for students to explore their passions,  discover their vocation, and become an active and engaged member of their community. Peacebuilding and Development studies can lead to exciting careers and service at home and around the world."
(Provided By: Eastern Mennonite University)

“This interdisciplinary program prepares students for vocations in organizations that seek to establish peace and justice among individuals, communities, and nations.  It is ideal for students interested in work with non-governmental organizations such as the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps and Amnesty International or church-related organizations such as Lutheran World Relief, Catholic Worker Movement or American Friends Service Committee.” 
(Provided By: Wartburg College)

“The Peace, Justice, and Human Rights (PJHR) Program offers an interdisciplinary major and minor, consistent with John Carroll University’s mission to inspire individuals to excel in learning, leadership, and service, and to prepare students for careers in nonprofits, public service, law, and social entrepreneurship, helping to create a more just, peaceful, and equitable world.” 
(Provided By: John Carroll University)

"The Peace and Justice Studies Program provides an intellectual focus on forms of peacemaking and conflict resolution. The program combines the social scientific analysis of conflict with the study of strategies for promoting peace and justice. Areas of major focus in the program are international conflict and peacemaking, forms of conflict resolution, race, class and gender inequities, ethnic conflict, human rights, grassroots urban organizing, and environmental justice." 
(Provided By: Wellesley College)

“Resolve conflicts with care as a Peace and Conflict Studies major at Guilford College. You’ll examine the relationship between personal and social change, structured modes of conflict resolution, and creative nonviolent activism and spiritual foundations for peaceable living.” 
(Provided By: Guildford College)

“With a commitment to peace, you will examine issues of national and international security and the common causes of conflict such as economic disparities and religious, ethnic, racial or gender discrimination. You will develop an understanding and awareness of the responsibility of citizenship in an age of nuclear weapons; regional, ethnic and religious conflicts; environmental deterioration; and global economic interdependence.” 
(Provided By: College of The Holy Cross)