Nonviolence in Theory and Practice

by Barry L. Gan, Robert L. Holmes

This much-anticipated Second Edition adds twenty-three new readings to an already impressive collection of writings by some of the leading theorists and practitioners of nonviolence. Holmes and Gan provide a diversity of articles on both secular and religious origins of nonviolence; articles by or about Gandhi, King, Tolstoy, and Chavez; feminist approaches to nonviolence by contemporary writers; new articles addressing the theory and practice of nonviolence with respect to nature and animal rights; and fresh examples of the application of nonviolence to conflicts in the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Tibet. The collection includes the perspectives of those committed to nonviolence as a principle, those committed to nonviolence primarily as a tactic, and those for whom nonviolence is a personal practice. The selections have been arranged to engage those who are new to the philosophy of nonviolence. After an opening section on its origins, the next section focuses on three principal philosophers of nonviolence, followed by an examination of women and nonviolence and a discussion of pacifism. The final sections take a closer look at how nonviolence is implemented, including specific examples drawn from different regions of the world. The breadth and depth of articles promote critical thinking about the nature and efficacy of both violence and nonviolence and allow readers to discover the many ways in which nonviolence can be employed to achieve meaningful objectives.

Genres: Textbooks, Nonfiction, Politics

383 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1989

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book - used as a textbook by many in the field - is nevertheless quite an accessible read for anyone interested in nonviolence and its major theorists over the decades. Most of the authors come from the late 19th century through the present, but older world scriptural references are incorporated as well. It is broad in its scope, and highly recommended as a general theory source.

[Elizabeth Lozano · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent reader. Well edited, structured and argued for. One of my favorites in the nonviolence canon. Excellent as a textbook.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book to learn a tremendous amount about nonviolence! Recommended for all wanting to know why and how nonviolence is used, and its success rates in different circumstances.