Peace Studies at ASU

An initiative of the Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict

study of humanity’s imagination of peace and efforts to construct peace across space and time.”

Q: What is "peace studies"?

Peace studies is a broad interdisciplinary field, potentially drawing upon most, if not all, academic disciplines. Peace Studies encompasses the study of humanity’s imagination of peace and efforts to construct peace across space and time. Understanding peace as a dynamic process, it includes many topics, such as: inner peace; interpersonal, intergroup and international relations; conflict resolution; nonviolence and alternatives to violence; and peace education.

Q: How do we study peace?

Rejecting views that peace comes through violence or war, this field explores the possibilities for peace expressed in philosophical, religious, social, political, and spiritual thought, as well as in diverse cultural and artistic forms, social movements, and institutions, both within and across borders. The Hardt-Nickachos Peace Studies Initiative at ASU's Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict shares a commitment to understanding and advancing those ideas, resources and practices that will contribute to a just and lasting peace. The initiative includes public programming, support for new course development, and student scholarships and fellowships.