How to Change the World: The Strategies and Tactics of Nonviolent Action

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course teaches the fundamentals of effective organizing for peace and social justice. Students will become familiar with theories of nonviolent change and the methods of social action. Topics of focus include the principles of strategy, the use of media communications and coalition building. The course will examine lessons from previous peace movements for addressing the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine today. It will look at the relationship between social movements and institutional politics with reference to the November 2024 elections. Relevant historical and contemporary examples will be reviewed, including the civil rights movement, Black Lives Matter, the Women’s March and the climate change movement. Course work consists of readings, lectures, videos, guest speakers and class discussion on the identified topics. Students will participate in class activities and team learning exercises.