Civil Society in Conflict Resolution (POL4248.01)

Rotimi Suberu

Civil society or the arena of autonomous associational organization and activity has been credited with promoting various virtuous outcomes, including democratization, development, and social peace. This course critically surveys civil societies’ roles in peacemaking and peace building. It will explore theoretical controversies on the nature and roles of civil society as well as specific examples of conflict interventions by civic associational groups. These examples will draw from case studies and experiences from around the world, including Ashutosh Varshney’s scholarly work on Hindu-Muslim conflict and civic life in India, and the practical work of “The Imam and the Pastor” in Nigeria.

Prerequisites: Previous work in SCT or CAPA. Please email instructor by Wednesday, November 28th at RSuberu@bennington.edu or sign up during office hours on Friday (11/30), 10am-2pm.
Credits: 2
M 8:00am - 9:50am; Th 8:00am - 9:50am (first seven weeks)
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Course Frequency:
This course is categorized as 4000, All courses, Areas of Study, CAPA, First Seven Week, Monday and/or Thursday Mornings, Politics, Rotimi Suberu, Society Culture and Thought, Two Credit.