An “ism” is a philosophy with its distinct sets of practices and which is often understood as a shared ideology of a group. The ideology or the “ism” provides identity to a group and to the individuals of the group. Not surprisingly, identities stemming from “isms” via for the loyalty of its members and turn into a source of identity-based conflicts. Identity conflicts rooted in these philosophical “isms” are naturally intractable conflicts making it crucial for conflict interveners to identify the sources and process of formation of “isms” and the causal role it plays in the creation of shared identities.

This course will prepare students to conduct in-depth analysis of “isms” (including but not limited to nationalism, fundamentalism, classism, racism, sexism, ageism) by looking into the formation, development and maintenance of group identities. By conducting an in-depth analysis of the “isms” and the related conflicts, intervention strategies will be discussed. Case studies and current events will provide materials for class discussion and assignments.