CPS6502 - Though there is a vast literature on conflict and peace studies, the Hindu ideas are seldom factored in the discipline. The course aims to fill this gap while dispelling myths about Hindu ideas on conflict resolution. A closer examination reveals that Hindu thought from the very ancient era dealt with conflict at multiple levels and explored pathways for their transformation. A hallmark of the Hindu thought is its spiritual approach to conflict and its emphasis on the interlinkage of conflicts at various spheres including psychological, social, cultural, political, and economic. Whether it was the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna in the battlefield of Kurukshetra or Kautilya’s famous exhortation to Indians to unite against invading Greeks, or Ashoka’s remorse during the Kalinga war or Gandhi’s struggle against the British rule, they reveal to us powerful ideas and their relevance for a discourse on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. While introducing students the core elements of the Hindu thought on conflict and peace, the course explores their conflict resolution potentials. Students will examine an ongoing conflict, while exploring Hindu conflict resolution.
Admission into a HUA Graduate program of study (MAH or DHS)
Semester / Quarter:
Semester
Number of Weeks:
16
Required / Core / Elective:
Core for Applications of Hindu Thought – Distribution
Semester / Quarter Offered:
Fall 2023
Days of the Week:
Saturday
Time:
10 am to 1 pm – EST
Start Date:
August 26, 2023
End Date:
December 16, 2023
Faculty
Dr. Debidatta. A. Mahapatra
Dr. Debidatta Aurobinda Mahapatra holds a doctoral degree from the McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston. His areas of interest include conflict management and peacebuilding, South Asia, and Indian thought.
