Feminist Perspectives on Peace Education

In: Journal of peace research, Band 28, Heft 2, S. 231-235

Abstract

A review essay on two books by Birgit Brock-Utne, Educating for Peace & Feminist Perspectives on Peace and Peace Education (Oxford: Pergamon, 1985 & 1989, respectively [see listings in IRPS No. 62]). Despite the similarity of titles these books are considered complementary, rather than overlapping: the first describes women's actions for peace & against armament & violence; & the second analyzes different perspectives on the position of women, & the concrete consequences of the author's broad notion of peace (absence of violence & equality of rights). Brock-Utne's standpoints on the sources of the underprivileged living conditions of women & on gender-specific socialization determinants, her analyses of historical perspectives on pioneer female peace activists, & of the effects of televised violence, & her concept of peace as absence of violence are criticized. The second book's analysis of peace education in the formal school system, it is suggested, lacks sufficient reference to relevant research. While the books contribute to peace education & research on it, the interrelation between individual, social, & national violent interactions requires further research. 5 References. I. Shagrir