Estudios para la paz: Una disciplina para transformar el mundo

Abstract

This article presents the often overlooked interdisciplinary field of Peace Studies with a focus on its historical evolution since its emergence in the early 20th century. For this purpose, it first overviews its major institutional developments identifying four stages in this evolution: origins (1914-1945), institutionalisation (1945-1970), discipline development (1970-1990), discipline consolidation (from 1990 onwards). Second, it identifies six major lines of inquiry / features within the debates that have defined the discipline: approaching violence and promoting peace; necessity of an interdisciplinary approach; peaceful and non-violent management of conflicts; global and multi- cultural focus; balance between scientific analysis and normative engagement; relation between academic and practical purposes. Finally, it reviews the contemporary agenda of Peace Studies, identifying the current trends in the discipline.