Chapter 8: Learning to Transform Conflict Through Popular Culture Analysis

The first day of an introductory peace, justice, and conflict studies course is always full of anxiety and excitement. Students often come into the space not sure what we are going to do. I assure them that we will talk about things that are often not openly talked about in overt ways but that impact our daily living: conflict and violence. I also tell students that I have two goals: (1) to introduce them to more complex ways of thinking about the world; and (2) to give them some practical tools for managing or transforming conflict in productive ways. I want to teach students skills that will improve their lives. Not surprisingly, students are eager to learn about theories and practices that apply to their lives. This provides an opportunity to change how they understand and engage in conflict. It also provides an opportunity to help (re)shape the communities of which they are a part.