PACS 3850: International Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding

collage of peacebuilding

About the Course

This course provides an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of international conflict resolution and peacebuilding. As an area of knowledge and practice the field provides tools for analyzing and intervening in contemporary manifestations of violent social conflict. Conflict resolution attempts to understand the underlying dynamics and sources of international disputes in an effort to work toward sustainable peace. As such, conflict resolution challenges theories of international relations that rest on military supremacy or coercive diplomacy. Instead, we focus on the ability of international organizations, states, and peoples to work collaboratively to develop mutually beneficial solutions aimed at the satisfaction of basic needs, collective security, political representation, justice, and respect for human dignity. In this course, students will learn the foundations of conflict analysis, explore the causes and dynamics of international conflict, as well as the various means by which these situations are mitigated, contained, and resolved. We will also explore the approaches governments, international organizations, and communities take to build peace in post-conflict contexts, engaging in processes such as dialogue, problem solving, peacekeeping, DDR, citizen diplomacy, and reconciliation.

Syllabi

PACS 3850 Syllabus - Content is similar for both the in-person and online versions.

Class Attributes

  • This course counts for Arts & Sciences General Education: Distribution-Social Sciences

  • This course counts for Arts & Sciences General Education: Diversity-Global Perspective

  • This course counts under Functional Area IV for International Affairs Majors

  • This course is cross-listed with IAFS 3850 for International Affairs Majors

  • This course counts as an elective for students registered for the PACS Certificate

Offerings

  • This course is offered in person spring term.
  • This course is offered asynchronously summer term.
  • This course is offered asynchronously through Continuing Education fall and spring terms.