Spirituality, Religion, and Peace Education (PB)

A volume in Peace EducationSeries Editors Ian Harris, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Edward J. Brantmeier, Colorado StateUniversity, and Jing Lin, University of Maryland,Spirituality, Religion, and Peace Education attempts to deeply explore the universal andparticular dimensions of education for inner and communal peace. This co-edited book contains fifteenchapters on world spiritual traditions, religions, and their connections and relevance to peacebuilding andpeacemaking. This book examines the teachings and practices of Confucius, of Judaism, Islamic Sufism,Christianity, Quakerism, Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and of Indigenous spirituality. Secondly, itexplores teaching and learning processes rooted in self discovery, skill development, and contemplativepractices for peace. Topics in various chapters include: the Buddhist practice of tonglen; an indigenousHawaiian practice of Ho'oponopono for forgiveness and conflict resolution; pilgrimage and labyrinthwalking for right action; Twelve Step Programs for peace; teaching from a religious/spiritual perspective;narrative inquiry, Daoism, and peace curriculum; Gandhi, deep ecology, and multicultural peace education in teacher education; peacemaking andspirituality in undergraduate courses; and wisdom-based learning in teacher education. Peace education practices stemming from wisdom traditionscan promote stillness as well as enliven, awaken, and urge reconciliation, connection, wisdom cultivation, and transformation and change in bothteachers and students in diverse educational contexts.In various chapters of this book, a critique of competition, consumerism, and materialism undergird the analysis. More than just a critique,some chapters provide both conceptual and practical clarity for deeper engagement in peaceful action and change in society. Cultural awareness andunderstanding are fostered through a focus on the positive aspects of wisdom traditions rather than the negative aspects and historical complexities ofviolence and conflict as result of religious hegemony.