Ethics of Nonviolence: Theory and Practice

I am interested in teaching nonviolent social action. I have been teaching a capstone seminar on this topic for several years and I want to see how I could translate some of the theoretical aspects of nonviolent activism into practical and hands-on actions on real life issues.

In this interdisciplinary course, we examine the philosophy and practicality of the ethical aspect of nonviolence with an understanding of both the normative and practical debates surrounding nonviolence in both its obstructive (nonviolent resistance movements against injustice) and constructive (sociopolitical and environmental reconstruction for justice) forms. In doing so, we will consider the question of what a nonviolent life entails and explore the ethical and practical dimensions of nonviolence through the works of Thoreau, Gandhi, King, Gene Sharp, James Lawson, and others. We will explore the history, theory, and current day practice of nonviolence in social change covering a wide range of issues such as colonialism, gender and racial discrimination, exploitation of non-human animals, and environmental and sustainability concerns. We will read classic and contemporary philosophical texts and engage with people's movements including the independence movement in India, civil rights movement in America, women's rights, and environmental movements around the world. We will also reflect on the historically neglected yet powerful dimension of nonviolence as Gandhi professed in and through his life and actions: the vision of an alternative society with particular focus on work done by Western associates of Gandhi. Additionally, guest speaker events aimed to integrate classroom knowledge with real-world practice will provide you with opportunities for ethical reflection on questions of social and moral responsibility and ways we can contribute positively to society as well as becoming wiser, more loving, and committed to the practices of nonviolence for peace and justice. [1]

Bidisha Mallik Associate Teaching Professor Social Sciences University of Washington - Tacoma