This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module is designed to introduce students to the principle approaches to conflict and conflict resolution. Starting with a discussion of the pervasiveness of conflict in human existence, the module will engage with the key question of "what is conflict?" Students will be introduced to conflict management and conflict resolution approaches before engaging with conflict resolution processes such as negotiation and mediation. The module will rely on case studies and simulations to help students engage directly and better grasp the different theoretical approaches. Case studies will include an in-depth analysis of the Oslo process and a discussion of the specific difficulties linked to negotiations with “terrorists.” The students will emerge from the module with knowledge of the central paradigms and concepts of conflict analysis and resolution, and with an initial set of skills (negotiation and mediation) which can be used to further understand international politics but also in their personal engagement with others.
Total contact hours: 22
Private study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
Available as an elective module
Conflict Report, 2000 words (40%)
Reading Quizzes x4 (5% each, 20% overall)
Exam, 2 hrs (40%)
Reassessment Instrument: 100% coursework
* Ramsbottam, O., Miall, H. and Woodhouse, T. (2016). Contemporary Conflict Resolution: The Prevention, Management and Transformation of Deadly Conflicts. Cambridge: Polity.
* Fisher, R. and Ury, W. (1991). Getting to Yes, New York: Penguin
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. recognise key approaches to the study of conflict
2. understand the main concepts and theories of international conflict and conflict resolution
3. identify the main practices of conflict resolution and their limitations
4. engage with empirical cases and simulations of international conflicts
5. identify the main critiques of conflict theories
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