Course Details

This course takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of violence acrossa range of scales and formations. At the same time, we will explore peace as a process actively produced not only in response to violence, but also in the absence of violence or as a preventive mechanism. We will consider theories of peace and violence drawn from geography, anthropology, political science, social work, philosophy, psychology, literary theory, postcolonial and feminist theory, and history. Theoretical approaches will be paired with empirical studies, community-based research findings, and creative mediums (i.e. art, music, and creative writing), to examine the following areas: definitions and typologies of ‘violence’ and ‘peace’; structural and systemic violence; (post)colonialism; terrorism, counter-terrorism, and peace; inter-community conflict and peace initiatives; crime, homelessness, and security/surveillance; domestic violence & peace building in families; self and subjectivity, inner-peace and internalized oppression. Other themes that will emerge across these weeks include: (im)migration, poverty, global health, development, race/racism, gender, decolonization, and human rights.

Over the course of the quarter, students will be expected to make connections between the theories and empirical examples we engage, and thus to map and make sense of the linkages between various forms of violence and peace at different scales and sites. Weekly writing assignments will be used to draw out students’ critical reflection, and class-time will be discussion driven. Most students in the class will participate in service learning. Those who are not able to do service will undertake research on a peace or anti-violence initiative of their choice, preferably one with a Seattle connection so that they can include a site visit or interview in their research. Final class projects will revolve around the service or research work and students will present their findings and reflections in the last weeks of the quarter. Students will be required to include an artifact and annotation from this project in their Honors Portfolios, and thus have the opportunity to develop this with peer and instructor support.

In their weekly assignments, quarter-long projects, and final presentations, students are encouraged to express their ideas creatively and in a manner that captures their own voice (for example, through the use of art, music, film, creative writing and digital platforms).

NOTE – UPDATE:
In preparation for our fall course, please read George Orwell’s 1984. Even if you have read the book in the past, I ask that you read it again specifically for this course. During our study of ‘Geographies of Peace and Violence’ this autumn, we will examine how ‘peace’ and ‘violence’ are deployed as ideas within accounts of historical and contemporary events, as well as the complex meanings assigned to these terms within varying contexts. Please read 1984 with a critical eye to the different roles that peace and violence play in Orwell’s story. What meanings are assigned to the terms? How does Orwell craft his story to reveal dynamics of violence that are otherwise unspoken or less visible? How are these two concepts/terms of peace and violence used by the government in Orwell’s fictional account? Do you see any parallels in our contemporary world? How does Orwell’s account complicate the notion that peace is necessarily an antidote to, or the antithesis of, violence?

Prior to our first day of class (Thurs. Sept. 25th), please read the book and take some notes on the questions above. During our first week of class, you will be given a short writing assignment asking you to reflect on peace & violence in Orwell’s story and to begin connecting this with our course themes.