17 582 Civil War Spring 2010

Why do internal conflicts erupt, and why are some civil wars so difficult to resolve? Understanding the underlying drivers of domestic warfare is essential for anyone interested in international relations, political science, or global security. This text-only course guides you through the foundational social science theories that explain the life cycle of civil wars. You will transition from seeing domestic conflict as chaotic violence to understanding it as a structured phenomenon with identifiable causes, dynamics, and paths to resolution. What you will learn: Understand the root causes and triggers of civil war, including economic, ethnic, and political grievances; Analyze the key variables that determine the duration and intensity of internal conflicts; Examine the mechanisms of conflict termination, from military victories to negotiated peace agreements; Explore real-world historical and contemporary case studies to apply theoretical models; Study modern dynamics of civil war, including the role of digital communication, proxy intervention, and modern peacekeeping frameworks. You will start by mastering key terminology and historical context before moving on to analyze the strategic decisions of warring factions. Through structured readings and analytical exercises, you will learn to evaluate conflict prevention and resolution strategies. This course is designed for beginners, aspiring political scientists, and global affairs enthusiasts who want to build a strong foundation in conflict analysis. No prior background in political science or international relations is required. Begin your journey into the study of global conflict today.