By providing an introduction to the field of Peace Studies, this collection of articles from authors of all political persuasions and from many countries, gives the reader an insight into the issues involved in the understanding of peace and conflict in the modern interdependent global system. The topics covered in the book include: what is peace theory and why is it important?; the contribution of feminism to the understanding of peace; the contribution of psychology to the understanding of peace; analyses of different forms of international conflict; various aspects of nuclear technology and related decision-making; political and economic aspects of development in the Third World; and the alternative of nonviolence. The thought-provoking ideas presented here form the basis for discussion in Peace Studies courses as well as providing the general reader with the range of expert knowledge and learned opinion they need in order to be active and informed citizens.

Approaches to Peace provides a unique and interdisciplinary sampling of classic articles and short literary selections focusing on the diverse aspects of peace and conflict studies. Readings cover the causes of war and proposed means of preventing it and reflect upon the universal concern forpositive peace. The material examines nonviolence movements, peace movements, relgious inspirations, and our future prospects for peace. The book's balanced and unbiased approach make it easily adaptable to both general discussions of peace and conflict as well as the rapidly changing issues of themoment. Approaches to Peace is able to stand on its own as a foundation text in any introductory peace studies course. It is also compact enough to use as a supplement with other more specialized readings, or used in conjunction with a text. Each selection is prefaced by a short introductionhighlighting the author's background, the work's historical context, and the selection's significance in terms of the "big picture." Study questions and a list of suggested readings at the end of each selection also provide a useful resource for students.

Thoroughly revised, the Second Edition of Peace and Conflict Studies sets the new gold standard as an accessible introduction and comprehensive exploration of this vital subject. The authors share their vast knowledge and analysis about 21st-century world events – including new coverage on timely topics such as terrorism, the truth and reconciliation process, and the clash of civilizations. With an encyclopedic scope, this introductory text chronicles a plethora of important global topics from pre-history to the present. Key Features of the Second Edition Includes updated chapters and examines current conflicts, including the Iraq War Explores the important aspects of positive peace, individual violence, nationalism, and terrorism Provides numerous visual aids, questions for further study, and suggested readings Furnishes a comprehensive range of material to enlighten and enrich future discussion and encourage further academic pursuit Intended Audience This text is invaluable for students and professors in peace and or conflict studies, psychology and or the sociology of peace and conflict studies, international relations, comparative politics, history, and others interested in gaining a solid foundation about the global arena. Praise for the First Edition "Barash and Webel have penned a masterpiece that should appeal to seasoned scholars of peace and conflict studies as well as to others who have little knowledge of this multidisciplinary field." --Daniel J. Christie, Ohio State University

The thoroughly updated Fourth Edition of the gold standard text explores historical and current topics in today’s rapidly changing world to provide a comprehensive introduction to peace and conflict studies. The authors offer an insightful analysis of 21st-century global affairs, including such timely topics as ISIS, the nature of violence and nonviolence, cutting-edge military technologies, the Terrorism and Global Peace Indexes, and the latest developments in Iran, North Korea, and Syria. Comprehensive yet written in a student-friendly and accessible style, the text represents a commitment to inspire readers to create a better world through an understanding of what has happened and what is happening, and therefore what is likely to take place in the future. Read Dr. Barash’s article on Psychology Today on why nuclear threats by the U.S. Government are never a successful defense tactic.

"Providing a new approach to understanding peace and conflict resolution in a comparative perspective, this volume will attract the attention of students and scholars of international relations, human rights, politics, and peace and security studies."--BOOK JACKET.

A Peace Reader Revised contains articles reflecting different and even opposing viewpoints, offering competing visions of the future. They range from the scholarly to the folksy; from the philosophical to the satirical; from the didactic to the poetic. In an effort to help students develop critical thinking skills, the authors include study questions after every major article. The result is a book as contemporary as today's headlines and as timeless as the wisdom of the ages.