Towards an integrative theory of peace education

Abstract

This paper proposes the integrative theory of peace (ITP) and briefly outlines the education for peace curriculum (EFP) developed on the basis of this theory. ITP is based on the concept that peace is, at once, a psychological, social, political, ethical and spiritual state with its expressions in intrapersonal, interpersonal, intergroup, international, and global areas of human life. The theory holds that all human states of being, including peace, are shaped by our worldview—our view of reality, human nature, purpose of life and human relationships. Four prerequisites for effective peace education—unity‐based worldview, culture of healing, culture of peace and peace‐oriented curriculum—are discussed. The paper supports the conceptual elements of the ITP by drawing from the existing body of research on peace education and the EFP experience in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) where, since 2000, some 112 BiH schools with almost 80,000 students, along with their parents and teachers, have begun to systematically introduce the principles and practices of EFP into the curriculum and operation of their respective schools.

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