Peace Studies as Education for Nonviolent Social Change

Abstract

One of the goals of peace studies is to nourish a commitment to nonviolent social change. To accomplish this, it is imperative that teachers educate accordingly, both in what they teach and in how they teach. This article explores that idea by examining the key terms: “education,”“nonviolence,” and “social change.” First, definitions of the word “education” are examined, and it is argued that peace studies is education that is liberal and liberating. This leads to a discussion of the concept of nonviolence, which is presented in terms of three issues: violence and human nature, structural violence, and personal commitment to nonviolence. Finally, the concept of social change is examined in its relationship to the notion of power, to the importance of envisioning a better world, and to the importance of group action. Two models of social change are offered. Finally, classroom examples are provided that illustrate ways in which both content and pedagogy can contribute to the goal of education for nonviolent social change.