Nonkilling Global Political Science
Product Description
This book is offered for consideration and critical reflection primarily by political science scholars throughout the world. Neither age nor erudition seems to make much difference in the prevailing assumption that killing is an inescapable part of the human condition that must be accepted in political theory and practice. It is hoped that readers will join in questioning this assumption and will contribute further stepping stones of thought and action toward a nonkilling global future. This may be the first book in English to contain the word nonkilling in its title. The term is not in customary use. It seeks to direct attention beyond peace and even nonviolence to focus sharply upon the taking of human life. The initial response of many may be that to focus upon nonkilling is too negative, too narrow, and neglects more important things. They may find company in Gandhis admonition that to define ahimsa (nonviolence) as nonkilling offers little improvement… More >>
Nonkilling Global Political Science
This may be the first book in the English language to have the word “nonkilling” in its title. It invites all who study political science throughout the world and other concerned readers to consider seriously the question, “Is a nonkilling society possible?” The book proceeds to offer grounds for taking such a possibility seriously, and explores the implications of such an assumption for political science, for global problem-solving, and for needed new transitional institutions. This book is offered for consideration and critical reflection primarily by political science scholars throughout the world from beginning students to professors emeriti. Neither age nor erudition seems to make much difference in the prevailing assumption that killing is an inescapable part of the human condition that must be accepted in political theory and practice. It is hoped that readers will join in questioning this assumption and will contribute further stepping stones of thought and action toward a nonkilling global future.
About the author
Glenn D. Paige is Professor Emeritus of Political Science, University of Hawai’i, and the Dounder and Chair of the Governing Council of the nonprofit Center for Global Nonkilling (formerly Center for Global Nonviolence) in Honolulu, Hawai’i. He has taught at Seoul National University (1959-61), Princeton University (1961-67), and the University of Hawai’i (1967-92), where he introduced undergraduate courses and graduate seminars on political leadership and nonviolent political alternatives. A Korean War veteran, he is the author of The Korean Decision: June 24-30, 1950 (1968), The Scientific Study of Political Leadership (1977), and To Nonviolent Political Science: From Seasons of Violence (1993). Full bio available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_D._Paige
Rating: 5 / 5
Many people unfortunately assume killing is human nature. Yet Dr. Paige demonstrates that a very small fraction of humans have ever killed another human. Why then do so many seem to conclude there is little that can be done to stop killing? This book raises the spectre of a new frontier, where energy, creativity and resources are committed to working toward a killing free world, recognizing the realities of the world we live in and the multi-generational nature of the task. It builds on the recognition that we really do not have a choice if we desire the emergence and sustainability of global civil societies. The book argues convincingly for the need of a new era of thinking, policy and action.
Rating: 5 / 5
I found this book when doing research for my son’s school project on nonviolence and the aspect of nonkilling. This was well written and helped to illuminate the importance of discussing this starting at the school curriculum level. It was shocking to realize how rare the discussion of ‘nonkilling’ is in existing books. I think this should be required reading at the high school level.
Rating: 5 / 5