Understanding Peace Research

Methods and Challenges

Magnus Oberg editor Kristine Höglund editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:18th Feb '11

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Understanding Peace Research cover

This book provides a comprehensive overview of methods for information gathering in peace research, addressing unique challenges faced by students and researchers.

This textbook offers a thorough exploration of various methods and sources for gathering information relevant to peace and conflict studies. It addresses both students and researchers, highlighting the unique challenges inherent in this field. In the realm of conflict research, understanding the complexities of information collection is crucial, as it often involves navigating propaganda, misrepresentation, and biased reporting. Such challenges can significantly impact the reliability of the data gathered in conflict-ridden societies.

The authors delve into the ethical considerations and practical guidelines necessary for conducting effective peace and conflict research. They provide tools for evaluating sources, suggestions for locating various types of information, and advice on utilizing diverse sources, including news reports and personal narratives. Additionally, the book offers insights into constructing large-scale datasets and conducting comparative fieldwork, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and surveys.

Understanding Peace Research serves as an essential resource for anyone engaged in peace and conflict studies, conflict resolution, and related fields. It is particularly valuable for students, researchers, and NGO workers who seek to enhance their understanding of empirical data collection methods in the context of peace research. The authors, Kristine Höglund and Magnus Öberg, bring their extensive expertise to the forefront, making this book a significant contribution to the discipline.

'At last we have a book that addresses the varied research needs of peacemakers. This'book draws on the Uppsala Conflict Data Program’s experience in systematic data collection but is careful to include field work in conflict settings, and to acknowledge their complementarity. A timely publication.' Prof. John Darby, Kroc Institute, Notre Dame University

'The editors and authors of this volume have produced a comprehensive overview of peace research methods, ranging from historical source criticism and field-work in war-torn societies to the setting up of databases for the statistical study of conflict. The result is a book that should prove extremely valuable in teaching as well as in research on conflict and peace, while also being accessible to a wider public.' Nils Petter Gleditsch, Research professor, Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO)

'It is a rare moment when a book arrives that fills so great a need and then also does so with such care and quality. Understanding Peace Research walks researchers through the difficulties of researching violent conflict, provides superb instruction on a wide range of techniques and sources of information in such conditions, and answers the impassioned plea from those doing field research for guidance on its ethical challenges as well.' Professor Susan L. Woodward, The Graduate Center, CUNY

ISBN: 9780415571975

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 600g

240 pages