Course Description

GS230 War and Peace in Global Perspective 0.5

This course adopts a critical approach to peace and conflict on the global stage by examining the changing nature and understanding of warfare in the modern age. It considers the various approaches that have and are being undertaken to secure the peace over time. Students begin by looking at the main theoretical approaches to war and peace, including a consideration of two world wars, the Cold War, and present day wars. They also study how definitions of peace and peacekeeping have changed in recent times, and why even these remain in dispute. The course takes an interdisciplinary approach, as philosophical, religious, and cultural understandings of war, peace, and conflict will also be considered. Attention will be directed to the past and present of international relations. Students will be asked to think critically of Canada’s role in matters of war and peace.

Prerequisite: GS100.

DRAFT electronic version updated at 1:45 p.m. January 30, 2003

M. Watson, Editor Course Timetable