1. Introduction to Peace Studies IIPS 30101

2. OR… What you call a course when the faculty can’t agree on a name for it…

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

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

5. Assessing violence, terrorism, war and our moment in history Professor’s Role: Present various ways of discussing and understanding violence Focus on social science understandings of violence Ask obnoxious questions and pose puzzles Your Role: Read the “competing” books Choose your grading scheme Reflect, write, discuss, reassess

6. Examining the ways to peace Personal non-violence Non-violent direct action for social change Conflict resolution-transformation efforts Peace as dealing with the violence problem in a structural sense

7. What we don’t cover Local, domestic violence…murder, crime, gangs, etc. Arguments based exclusively in justice or poverty terms. 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.

8. 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”

9. Other issues Attendance and class participation Staying on schedule and being interactive with the material - i.e. the classes, the readings, etc. 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.

10. The people in the course You! the active learner Me the questioning professor Osama the icon of terrorism George Bush, et al. the formal power Our families the formative forces “THEM” everybody touched by peace

11. 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!