Galtung Structural Violence Newer Version 2018

Introduction

  • Peace Research: A scientific field that focuses on defining and conceptualizing peace and violence.

  • Core Concepts:

    • Defining "peace" is critical for research strategies.

    • Conceptualizing violence is complex and involves various dimensions.

    • Effective peace actions require a broad yet specific understanding of violence.

Abstract

  • Objective of the Article: Provide a theoretical framework concerning peace and violence from a critical peace studies perspective.

  • Keywords: Peace Research, Peace, Violence, Peace Studies.

Key Principles in Defining Peace and Violence

  1. Frequency of Term Usage: "Peace" is often used in discussions to signify agreement or consensus.

  2. Complexity of Goals: Peace goals can be complicated but are not impossible to achieve.

  3. Linking Peace to Violence: Peace is defined as the absence of violence, encompassing various social orders.

Defining Violence

  • General Definition: Violence is present when individuals are impeded from reaching their potential well-being.

  • Dimensions of Violence:

    • Somatic and Mental Realizations: Defined as the difference between actual and potential life outcomes.

    • Direct vs. Indirect Violence:

      • Direct Violence: Obvious physical harm.

      • Indirect Violence: Structural inequalities affecting individuals' potential.

Types of Violence

  • Personal Violence: Actions with identifiable actors causing harm.

  • Structural Violence: Inequities in social structures that lead to harm without direct actions.

Analysis of Structural Violence

  • Mechanisms of Structural Violence:

    • Linear ranking system, inegalitarian interactions, and concentrated power.

    • Influence of socio-economic disparities on individual life outcomes.

Interrelations Between Types of Violence

  • Empirical Independence: Personal and structural violence do not always coexist but can influence each other.

  • Potential and Actual Violence: Social structures can uphold violence without direct interactions.

Dimensions of Peace

  • Negative Peace: Absence of personal violence.

  • Positive Peace: Absence of structural violence, representing ideals of social justice.

Research Implications

  • Importance of Diverse Approaches: Focus should be on both types of violence and how they connect to form a holistic view of peace.

  • Final Considerations: Research should balance interests in combating personal violence with efforts toward structural justice without relegating one to a secondary status.