Description
Hinduism and Conflict Resolution Course Description:
Though there is a vast literature on conflict and peace studies, Hindu ideas are seldom factored in the discipline. The course aims to fill this gap while dispelling myths about Hindu ideas on conflict resolution. A closer examination reveals that Hindu thought from the very ancient era dealt with conflict at multiple levels and explored pathways for their transformation. A hallmark of Hindu thought is its spiritual approach to conflict and its emphasis on the interlinkage of conflicts at various spheres including psychological, social, cultural, political, and economic. Whether it was the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna in the battlefield of Kurukshetra or Kautilya’s famous exhortation to Indians to unite against invading Greeks, or Ashoka’s remorse during the Kalinga war or Gandhi’s struggle against the British rule, they reveal to us powerful ideas and their relevance for a discourse on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. While introducing students to the core elements of the Hindu thought on conflict and peace, the course explores their conflict resolution potentials. Students will examine an ongoing conflict, while exploring Hindu conflict resolution.
Class Structure:
There will be 3 contact hours with the faculty every week. The class is structured in a way that promotes discussion and debate based on self-study, research and writing assignments each week. At the end of the course, students will be required to submit a short essay.Â
Course Learning Objectives:Â
·   Identify Vedantic approaches to conflict resolution.
·      Define Hindu conflict resolution approaches from ancient to modern times.
·       Demonstrate a basic knowledge of various conflict resolution methods.
·      Examine contemporary conflicts through a Hindu dharmic lens.
Area of Study: Conflict and Peace Studies
Required / Elective: Required
Prerequisites: Admission into the MA in Hindu Studies or Doctorate of Hindu studies, Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution. Students must complete 2 Hindu Studies Foundations courses prior to taking this course
Faculty: Dr. Debidatta. A. Mahapatra
Day: Friday
Start Date: January 27, 2023
End Date: May 19, 2023
Time: 06:00 pm EST – 09:00 pm EST
Quarter Offered: Winter 2023
