Identity & Conflict in the Middle East

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is often regarded as an intractable, enduring clash between two diametrically opposed sides. The fact that the conflict has endured for decades with little progress seems to support this position. But the reality of this conflict is more complex. This course will examine the role of identity in Israel/Palestine and with regards to how the Israel/Palestine conflict has spilled over to fuel identity-based conflicts in other countries in the region. In addition to the better-known disputes between Israelis and Palestinians, the course will explore the many divisions within these groups. This approach highlights the various ways in which Israelis and Palestinians conceive of their identities; in other words, what does it mean to be an Israeli or a Palestinian? And how do different understandings of these identities affect the prospects for peace in the region? This course includes numerous visits with religious leaders, civil society organizations, academics, and policymakers in order to gain firsthand experiences of the many approaches to identity and politics in Israel and Palestine. It also includes several site visits to historically influential destinations. Its guiding principles are to speak with as many people as possible, and to explore every possible perspective.