International development

Critical Perspectives on Conflict and Violence

Module code: L2154S
Level 6
30 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay

In recent years, there has been increased focus on conflict, violence and peace-building. The media, popular literature and aid programmes have raised important questions about how these processes are understood and represented, and what implications this has for the local and international response, and in turn the transformation of conflict and violence.

This module will offer critical perspectives on mainstream approaches to the study of conflict, violence and peace drawing on both anthropology and development studies.

Module learning outcomes

• To understand and compare different theoretical perspectives on the understanding, analysis and representation of conflict, violence and peace.
• To demonstrate understanding of different forms of conflict and violence and their effects, especially on different social groups.
• To critically evaluate local and international interventions to prevent and manage conflict and build peace.
• To demonstrate knowledge of the ethical and methodological issues involved in conducting research in contexts affected by conflict and violence.