HGPS 421 - Concepts in Peace Studies and Nonviolence

(3 units)

Considers feasibility and worth of using nonviolent methods for achieving peace at home and abroad. Contrasts nonviolence and violence according to means and ends.

Prerequisite(s): CH 201 or CH 202 or CH 203 ; ENG 102 ; junior or senior standing.

Units of Lecture: 3
General Capstone Course
Offered Every Fall
Student Learning Outcomes (if available):
Upon completion of this course:
1. Students will be able to articulate the positive and negative results that follow from one’s choice to rely on violence or nonviolence.
2. Students will be able to analyze and explain the means/ends model for differentiating violence from nonviolence and be able to articulate the benefits and limitations of this.
3. Students will be able to explain how war can be perceived as being morally superior to nonviolence. Be able to articulate what changes to our perception of nonviolence would have to happen to make it morally equivalent to war.
4. Students will be able to articulate the history and lineage of nonviolence in written exercises and through the examination of case studies.
5. Students will be able to identify and analyze the four-level Spectrum of Means for Experiencing Peace (SMEP) model.
6. Students will be able to identify and analyze those factors that contribute to perceived personal and societal efficacy in attempting to resolve major societal conflicts and confrontations.
7. Students will be able to synthesize and integrate the conditions for ethical decision-making with respect to a history of conflict and peace resolutions.

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