The Impact of War on Its (Willing and Unwilling) Participants

Undergraduate

This course delves into the intricate relationship between humanity and violence, whether it is state-sponsored or tribal. Students investigate the diverse impacts of armed conflict—covering physical, psychological, spiritual, and collective dimensions—while also considering the potential utilitarian benefits of collective military actions. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the course analyzes both historical and contemporary violent conflicts, emphasizing the experiences of civilians and combatants, as well as the often-overlooked long-term consequences of warfare. The goal is to develop a profound understanding of the human cost of war and to promote critical thinking about conflict resolution and peacebuilding. The course material is challenging and profound, addressing difficult topics such as mass violence, death, rape, child abuse, and other human tragedies. The texts highlight the brutality inflicted by political leaders and the experiences of state agents tasked with executing violence. This course is designed to explore the human experience of war with courage and conviction, ultimately guiding students toward a reflective examination of the wide-ranging human experiences associated with conflict. SO HTBA