Award Date

1-1-2005

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Political Science

First Committee Member

Mehran Tamadonfar

Number of Pages

167

Abstract

The Palestinian/Israeli conflict is one of the most challenging political puzzles of the modern era. Although this is a bold assertion, the influence of this one conflict on the politics of the Middle Eastern region and on the politics of the new millennium is overwhelming. Hence, figuring out how to solve the puzzle, or more realistically, contributing to movements towards a resolution is paramount. This thesis seeks to assist in the scholarship dedicated to achieving this end. It does so from a unique perspective; The thesis contends through a normative argument that a shift in Palestinian strategy, from violence to nonviolence, will facilitate necessary steps towards a resolution of the conflict. To establish this, it argues that the Palestinian and Israeli strategies of the conflict have been mostly violent since before 1948. The results of this type of strategy are manifested by the state of the conflict today. However, a shift to nonviolent action will likely bring more positive results; Importantly, the thesis discusses what solutions and obstacles exist that enable a shift to nonviolent resistance. The principles of nonviolent discipline and human suffering that are integral to theories of nonviolent action may be the key factors in a successful campaign. However, the culture of violence between the two sides, the historical experience of the Palestinians, and certain cultural values may hinder a shift in strategy. As well, several recent factors, including the Iraq War, the War on Terror, and the death of Yassir Arafat, may provide unforeseen opportunities for an effective nonviolent campaign. Importantly, this thesis does not spell out the specifics of how this strategy should take shape. It highlights important factors that can facilitate a Palestinian shift towards a nonviolent strategy.

Keywords

Conflict; Dynamics; Israeli; Nonviolence; Palestinian

Controlled Subject

International law

File Format

pdf

File Size

3614.72 KB

Degree Grantor

University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Language

English

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