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    Overview

    An advanced introduction to the study of the empirically based, theoretical debates on the micro and macro causes of violence and armed conflict, and the potential and challenges of peacebuilding.

    Theories of Peace and Conflict (PEAC 501) aims to provide a graduate-level introduction to and analytical assessment of the main theoretical frameworks and approaches employed within the field of Peace Studies as they relate to violent political conflict within, between, and across states. Specifically the course explores theoretical explanations for peace and sources of armed conflict within the contemporary international system, and provides a critical analysis of conflict resolution, post-conflict peacebuilding and alternatives to the use of force and violence.

    About this paper

    Paper title Theories of Peace and Conflict
    Subject Peace and Conflict Studies
    EFTS 0.25
    Points 30 points
    Teaching period Semester 1 (On campus)
    Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $2,162.75
    International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
    Restriction
    PEAC 401
    Limited to
    MPCS
    Eligibility
    Suitable for graduates of all disciplines interested in the theoretical framework of peace and conflict studies and the key debates taking place in this discipline.
    Contact
    peaceandconflict@otago.ac.nz
    Teaching staff

    Dr SungYong Lee

    Paper Structure

    Session topics

    1. Introduction to Peace and Conflict Studies
    2. Conflict Analysis
    3. Sources of Conflicts (1): Identity
    4. Sources of Conflicts (2): Systems, Economy and Resources
    5. Forced Migration and Refugees
    6. Environmental Issues and Ethics of War
    7. Conflict Transformation and Peacekeeping
    8. Human Rights and Humanitarianism
    9. Peace Negotiation and Third-Party Mediation
    10. Negotiation Simulation
    11. Post-conflict Reconstruction and Liberal Peacebuilding
    12. Nonviolent Peace Movements
    13. Culture, Religion, Education, and Peace
    Teaching Arrangements
    Each 3-hour seminar is a combination of lecture, discussion and reflection.
    Textbooks
    There is no core textbook for this paper. A range of readings will be drawn upon in class. Students are expected to have read the 3-5 set readings for each week and are encouraged to also read from the recommended readings list. Students are also encouraged to relate the week's readings to current events. Readings for essays and assignments will be expected to go beyond the reading lists provided here. Students should be prepared to explain and critically analyse the key arguments of readings in the class.
    Graduate Attributes Emphasised
    Communication, Critical thinking, Cultural understanding, Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation.
    View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
    Learning Outcomes

    Students who successfully complete the paper will develop knowledge and skills on

    • The main theories and approaches in the field of peace and conflict research.
    • The key lines of debate on the causes and resolution of conflict and contemporary peacemaking and peacebuilding practice.
    • Innovative and/or alternative models of conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
    • The key elements of research methodology.
    • Argumentation, analytical, writing, collaboration and presentational skills.
    • Making theoretically informed and empirically based arguments and relating theoretical models to contemporary issues of peace and conflict.

    Timetable

    Semester 1

    Location
    Dunedin
    Teaching method
    This paper is taught On Campus
    Learning management system
    Blackboard

    Lecture

    Stream Days Times Weeks
    Attend
    L1 Tuesday 09:00-11:50 9-14, 16, 18-22
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