PACS Course Descriptions

Peace and Conflict Studies (2009-2010)

An examination of influential theories about the sources and nature of conflict, violence and peace. Contributions from the social sciences as well as the humanities will be explored, with attention to connections between interpersonal, intergroup, and international levels of analysis.

An examination of the resolution of conflicts, ranging from interpersonal to broader social and international conflicts. Students are introduced to negotiation, mediation, and nonviolent resistance, and are encouraged to develop their own theoretical understandings that aid in addressing conflict.

A survey of individuals and groups that have created popular movements for peace globally and locally throughout history. The scope will be international, with a particular focus on the nineteenth and twentieth century movements. The choice of peace movements will allow for a contrast in comparison of ideology, strategy and impact.

A seminar course investigating special issues related to peace and conflict. Content may vary from year to year.

A seminar course investigating special issues related to peace and conflict. Content may vary from year to year.

This course introduces a variety of theoretical and practical perspectives on international development. It examines current and alternative development programs in terms of their contribution to justice and/or peace at local, national, and global levels.

A study of works of literature and film which express a resistance to war. The course examines how the desire to articulate an anti-war position has engaged the artistic sensibilities and shaped the visions and modes of expression of selected writers and filmmakers.

An analysis of the growing use of mediation and other conflict resolution strategies in community conflicts, race relations, church disputes and alternatives to the legal system. The course focuses on case studies with attention to both practical and theoretical issues.

This course examines the potential for utilizing the principles of mediation and conflict resolution in school administration, curricula, teaching, classroom management and school counselling.

An exploration of the traditional debates concerning the legitimacy of violence and war as instruments in the pursuit of personal and political goals. The course critically examines a continuum of views from religious doctrines of non-resistance, to various forms of pacifism and non-violent resistance, "just-war theory" and political realism. The strategic arguments for political non-violent action are also considered.

This course will examine the close causal connection between violations of human rights and violent conflict/war. It will also analyse the role of human rights and civil society principles in forging or consolidating peace. Course work will include case studies, assigned readings, class participation and simulation exercises.

Current Christian approaches to peacemaking in areas of conflict: war and militarism, crime, poverty, racism, and gender relations. Attention will be given to various biblical, theological, and historical bases for these approaches.

An examination of various themes in the history of peace and war using gender as a central category of analysis. Theoretical literature and international case studies will be used to explore how the discourse and enactment of war and peace are influenced by societal constructions of gender, both historically and in the present.

This course explores different ways of negotiating between people and groups with conflicting interests. You'll learn the theory behind the strategies and develop practical negotiation skills you can put to use in your daily life at home, at work and in the community.

This course will explore the tension between the values of human security/human rights and traditional economic policy. The impact of this dynamic relationship on the well-being of individuals as well as on corporations and international economic institutions to promote peace and just development will also be analyzed.

Like all professionals, persons engaged in technical professions are frequently confronted by conflict or by strong opposing interests that the professional must manage in order to accomplish his/her objective. This course will explore the types of conflicts that can arise in the technical professions and provide tools that will enable effective responses.

This course investigates the roles of religion and spirituality in peacemaking, exploring both obstacles and opportunities facing religious peace-builders. Cases involving representatives of major world religions (Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism) will provide a basis for comparing practices of faith-based advocacy for social justice, reconciliation, and coexistence.

Cultural differences enrich our world while also creating bases for disagreement and misunderstanding among individuals, social groups, and nations. This course explores the cultural dimensions of conflict and conflict resolution, shedding light on major patterns of human difference and their implications for contemporary peacebuilding practice.

An independent study course requiring reading, research and a paper on issues related to the application of peace and conflict studies theory within a field setting, either in Canada or abroad.

Students may arrange independent studies in the area of peace and conflict studies on problems of special interest.

Students may arrange independent studies in the area of peace and conflict studies on problems of special interest.

Each student will work on an integrative research project and will meet regularly with other students and faculty for discussion.

A continuation of PACS 401. Each student will work on an integrative research project or projects and will meet regularly with other students and faculty for discussion.