Ethnic Conflict: A Systematic Approach to Cases of Conflict

by Neal G. Jesse, Kristen P. Williams

As ethnic groups clash, the international community faces the challenge of understanding the multiple causes of violence and formulating solutions that will bring about peace. Allowing for greater insight, Jesse and Williams bridge two sub-fields of political science in Ethnic Conflict ―international relations and comparative politics. They systematically apply a "levels of analysis" framework, looking at the individual, domestic, and international contexts to better explore and understand its complexity. Five case study chapters apply the book’s framework to disputes around the world and include coverage of Bosnia, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Northern Ireland, Sri Lanka, and Sudan. Never losing sight of their analytical framework, the authors provide richly detailed case studies that help students understand both the unique and shared causes of each conflict. Students will appreciate the book’s logical presentation and excellent pedagogical features including detailed maps that show political, demographic, and cultural data.

432 pages, Paperback

First published February 8, 2010

Reviews

[A Rabbit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think it is a must-read book for students who are studying ethnic conflict. It introduces several classic cases of ethnic conflict and provides very systemic analysis at different levels: the international environment, the state, civil societies, and individuals.

[Neal Jesse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t just read it, I (co-)wrote it!