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Peace studies reemphasize Brethren values

Founded on the principle of peace, the Church of the Brethren has long been a leader in working to maintain world harmony. Keeping with this tradition, the University of La Verne has instituted a Peace Studies minor.

Although many of the Church of the Brethren’s influences are not immediately visible on campus, it is pleasing to see one tradition take hold, that of teaching peace to others. The new minor focuses on the pertinence of peace in everyday relationships and international relations.

The Campus Times realizes the school’s message of peace and embraces the new minor. ULV is the last of the Brethren schools to institute peace studies. It is long overdue and needs to be recognized not just by Brethren on campus, but all students.

La Verne was the first of the six Brethren colleges to allow school-sponsored dances, yet the last to emphasize peace. It is ironic that the most liberal college would offer peace studies last. The first such program at the Brethren schools was started at Manchester College in the late 1950s. Despite the long wait, war and violence still occur.

Now ULV students have the opportunity to study different peace philosophies and explore their own beliefs.

Peace studies offers a chance to “evaluate a range of definitions of peace from the most exclusive to the most inclusive; gain knowledge of a variety of approaches to peacemaking; develop their own personal position on peace and peacemaking; become acquainted with opportunities for translating their positions into action.”
Spelled out in the Peace Studies Proposal, the above tenants are useful to all students. With classes like “Conflict Resolution and Non-Violence,” all students will benefit from the new minor.

According to Jane Kirchner, peace studies chair, the new minor will provide an examination of the relationship “between the individual and the human and natural environment in a context that affirms mutual welfare and cooperative security.”

Students will have the opportunity to learn how they can apply peaceful measures in all aspects of their lives.

If we listen to the message, maybe La Verne can work toward a more non-violent campus and spread the Brethren message of non-violence beyond ULV.

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Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the Campus Times Editorial Board.

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