Conflict and International Development

About

Why are people or states violent? What does it achieve and what are the costs? How does conflict affect development and how does development affect conflict? This course presents a range of theories and case studies to examine the linkages between conflict and development, between inequality and violence, and between the structures and interests which contribute to the continuation of violence within and between countries. It provides students with an understanding of the causes and effects of violence, and of the interaction between different types of violence and the forms of security and insecurity that they promote. The course offers a thorough analytical understanding of the processes of violent conflict and a critical perspective on the policy implications for intervention.

The course is divided into three parts: First, we will explore the core concepts of conflict, development and violence, investigating these categories and how they interact. Second, we will explore and critically probe a range of explanations for the causes and consequences of violent conflict, focusing on explanations framed in terms of psychology, ethnicity, religion and borders. Finally, we will consider how security is organised within the state and in the international system, exploring how development interacts with insecurity and terror.

Throughout, the course will draw on case studies from a wide range of on-going and recent conflicts throughout the world, and students are asked to engage critically with key strands of literature, defining academic and policy debates about the causes and consequences of conflicts, and their interaction with national, human and international security. Students will critically examine the relevant literature, popular discourse and media portrayals of conflict to challenge assumptions and constructively engage with each other, reaching new understandings and strengthening analytical skills.

Course leader

Dr Zoë Marriage

Target group

A university student or a graduate at the time of attending the summer school, and 18+ years of age. Professional experience can be acknowledged as equivalent to a university qualification.

Course aim

At the end of a course, a student should be able to demonstrate:

- How wars and conflicts affect development processes and vice versa
- An ability to describe and critique major theories of conflict causes and consequences
- An understanding of national, human and international security priorities and how they are pursued.

Fee info