Religion Violence And Peacebuilding

This course explores the role of religion in relation to conflict, violence and peacebuilding processes. It presents the role played by religion as a social force in the politicisation of religio-ethnic identities, political conflicts, violence and peacebuilding in various social and political contexts. Students will embark on an investigation into the relationship between religion, violence and peacebuilding. Through consideration of a range of case studies, sources and texts, students will be guided to analyse different kinds of arguments and practices that communities, intellectuals and activists use to promote peace and violence.

The course is divided into three parts. Part One provides a general understanding and theoretical framework are provided as a foundation for assessing the nature and causes of contemporary conflicts. The role of religion in advocating violence, aggression and peacebuilding is outlined at this stage. Part Two discusses the dynamics of religious violence, considering normative approaches to the use of force or violence in some of the world's major religious traditions. Part Three will provide students with a range of general issues related to violence and peacebuilding. Students will be exposed to peacebuilding strategies, a universal concept of peace as well as interfaith dialogue.