Violence is at the heart of war while peace is often defined as the absence of violence. This module aims to introduce students to these three crucial aspects of international relations and conflict and how they are inter-related. Specifically, the aim of this module is to introduce students to a) the conceptual distinctions between war and violence and how to define peace and b) the methods and skills needed to study war, violence and peace. The module will use case studies and negotiation simulations to help students engage directly and better grasp how states go from peace to war and back to peace. The students will emerge with knowledge of the central theories and concepts of war and peace studies, and with an initial set of skills (negotiation and mediation) which can be used to further understand international politics but also in their personal relationships with others.
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Compulsory to the following courses:
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Placement Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Foundation Year
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Continental Europe or North America
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Language
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with a Year in Asia-Pacific
• BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations with Quantitative Research
Optional for the following courses:
• BA (Hons) Economics and Politics
• BA (Hons) History and Politics
• BA (Hons) Philosophy and Politics
• BA (Hons) Sociology and Politics
Also available as an elective module
Main assessment methods
Conflict report (2,000 words) 50%
Exam 50%
Reassessment methods
Like-for-Like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Recognise key approaches to the study of war and peace
2 Understand the main conceptual differences between war and violence and the main understandings of peace
3 Engage with empirical cases of war and peace
4 Understand the evolution of war, violence and peace in post-WWII period
5 Understand and apply some basic conflict resolution skills
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
