Cross-listed with Global Studies 10B.

According to the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, ‘war is the Father of all things’, while for the Church Father Augustine of Hippo ‘the end of war is peace’. Since antiquity philosophers, writers and theologians have argued extensively over the causes and the ends of war and the possibility of creating a peaceful international order. This class will guide students through the Western debate on war and peace from ancient Greece to the Renaissance, and from the Enlightenment to the current discussion on human rights and the refugee question. Readings will include prominent authors such as Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Dante Alighieri, Niccolò Machiavelli, William Shakespeare, Immanuel Kant, Hannah Arendt and others. While reading texts we will raise broad questions such as: is there an ideal form of government? can a war ever be just? Is there an international law that can regulate war and global politics? What are the rights of refugees and stateless persons?

Prerequisites: None.