Key facts
UNE unit code: PEAC503
*You are viewing the 2024 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
History has demonstrated that positive political, economic and social changes can occur when people unite to employ nonviolent methods.
This unit begins with an overview of the essential elements of nonviolence before discussing historical and contemporary case studies such as the Black Lives Matter Movement, Australia’s environmental activism and the complexities of the Arab Spring, Hong Kong, Sudan’s democratisation and the Denim Resistance in Belarus.
You will look at the evolution of nonviolence since Gandhi, and the contemporary relevance of nonviolence as an alternative to the terrible human waste of war and militarism.
The unit examines how nonviolence works, its ‘consent’ theory of power, and its strategies and tactics – think pull not push. You’ll explore where and when nonviolence can succeed even against ruthless opponents and totalitarian regimes, and we will discuss the artistic, spiritual and personal aspects of violence.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Contribution to online discussion is encouraged.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- critically analyse the issues and theories surrounding nonviolence and nonviolent action and present a coherent and sustained argument;
- with expert judgement, critically analyse sometimes complex and unpredictable case histories of nonviolent action at an advanced level;
- evaluate and reflect on how they can apply an advanced body of knowledge and skills relating to nonviolence in context of contemporary daily life;
- demonstrate an advanced body of knowledge and skills regarding the use of nonviolence to transform conflict and achieve social change; and
- demonstrate autonomy, creativity and initiative to plan and execute two essays.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 45% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 2500 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 45% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 2500 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Online Participation No. Words: 500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material is held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Blueprint for Revolution: How to use Rice Pudding, Lego Men and other Non-violent Techniques to Galvanise Communities, Overthrow Dictators, or simply Change the World
ISBN: 9781922247872
Popovic, S. and Miller, M., Scribe Publications 2015
Text refers to: All offerings
Social Defence
ISBN: 9789188061379
Jørgen Johansen and Brian Martin, Irene Publishing 2019
Text refers to: All offerings
Global Warming, Militarism and Non-Violence: The Art of Active Resistance
ISBN: 9781137010094
Branagan, M., Palgrave 2013
Text refers to: All offerings
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