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Richard McNeil-Willson and Robin Sclafani

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is designed for anyone interested in radicalisation, but will be of particular interest to civil society activists, religious organisations, formal and non-formal educators, social workers and local authorities. You can use the hashtag #FLInterfaith to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

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    Reviews summary

    Interfaith dialogue for social impact

    According to students, this course offers a highly relevant and nuanced understanding of interfaith dialogue and its role in combating extremism among young people. Learners frequently highlight the deeply knowledgeable instructors and the vibrant discussion forums which foster insightful exchanges and diverse perspectives. While many find the theoretical foundation strong and the content accessible for beginners, some learners suggest the course could benefit from more hands-on activities or practical case studies for direct intervention strategies. Recent reviews indicate a significant improvement in instructor engagement and discussion quality.
    Well-suited for those new to the subject matter.
    "As someone new to this field, I found the content very accessible and logically organized."
    "It's an okay course. The topic is crucial, but it might be better for absolute beginners."
    "This course covers an important topic and is good as an introduction."
    Recent reviews indicate significant improvements over time.
    "Disappointing. The discussions were slow, and the instructors seemed absent."
    "The discussion forums were vibrant, allowing for truly insightful exchanges with participants from diverse backgrounds."
    Led by knowledgeable and supportive instructors.
    "The instructors were deeply knowledgeable and fostered a respectful learning environment."
    "The instructors presented diverse viewpoints fairly."
    "The facilitators were responsive in the discussions."
    Features vibrant and insightful forums with diverse perspectives.
    "The discussion forums were vibrant, allowing for truly insightful exchanges with participants from diverse backgrounds."
    "The discussions were rich, often bringing in real-world experiences from participants."
    "I particularly valued the diverse perspectives shared in the forum; it felt like a truly global classroom."
    Provides a deep, sensitive, and highly relevant understanding.
    "This course exceeded my expectations. The content on interfaith dialogue was incredibly nuanced and provided practical frameworks for engagement."
    "Absolutely vital content for today's world. The course bravely tackles sensitive topics with academic rigor and an open mind."
    "An eye-opening experience. The course skillfully navigated sensitive topics, promoting empathy and critical thinking."
    Strong theoretical foundation, but some desire more direct application.
    "While the readings were comprehensive, I felt some sections could have delved deeper into specific regional contexts."
    "I was looking for more 'how-to' guides for direct engagement with youth groups."
    "The course is excellent for gaining theoretical understanding, but I would have loved more case studies or hands-on activities..."

    Career center

    Learners who complete Interfaith Dialogue for Combating Extremism among Young People will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

    Reading list

    We've selected 35 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Interfaith Dialogue for Combating Extremism among Young People.
    Is considered a foundational text in peacebuilding, offering practical insights and emphasizing inclusive approaches to reconciliation in divided societies. It draws on the author's extensive experience as a mediator and is often revisited by practitioners.
    A classic in the field, this book explores the role of empathy, creativity, and compassion in peacebuilding through storytelling. It highlights the importance of transforming hearts and minds in addition to political and structural changes. is highly recommended for gaining a deeper understanding of the personal and relational aspects of peacebuilding.
    This influential book examines the unintended consequences of international aid in conflict-affected areas. It is essential reading for anyone involved in humanitarian assistance and development in peacebuilding contexts, highlighting the importance of conflict-sensitive approaches.
    Provides a comprehensive overview of extremism, covering its causes, manifestations, and consequences. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand this complex phenomenon.
    Explores the challenges and opportunities of interfaith dialogue, arguing that it necessary step towards building a more just and peaceful world.
    Written by the widely recognized founder of Peace Studies, this book foundational work that continues to influence peacebuilding scholarship and practice. It provides a broad understanding of peace and conflict. It crucial text for students and practitioners alike.
    A foundational text on transitional justice, this book examines the processes societies undertake to address past human rights abuses. It is highly relevant to peacebuilding efforts in post-conflict settings and key resource for understanding the intersection of justice and peace.
    This handbook offers a comprehensive overview of contemporary peacebuilding literature and practices. It valuable reference tool for students and practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of the field, covering a wide range of topics and approaches.
    Edited by a leading expert in the field, this book critically assesses the role of civil society in peacebuilding processes. It is based on extensive research and provides valuable insights into the functions and impact of local actors in conflict and post-conflict settings.
    Offers a comprehensive overview of conflict resolution within the global system. It valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of war and peace and is often used as a textbook in academic settings.
    Challenges traditional peacebuilding practices and employs systems thinking to propose more effective and durable approaches to peace. It provides readers with theoretical and practical knowledge for building sustainable peace.
    Provides a comprehensive overview of international humanitarian law (IHL), which is crucial for understanding the legal framework governing armed conflicts and the protection of individuals in such situations. It valuable reference for those interested in the legal aspects of peacebuilding.
    This chapter or book edited by Thania Paffenholz examines the 'local turn' in peacebuilding, focusing on the role and agency of local actors. It provides a contemporary perspective on how peacebuilding is implemented on the ground.
    This handbook offers a systematic overview of the conceptual foundations, political implications, and tensions in peacebuilding, statebuilding, and peace formation. It explores different disciplinary perspectives and valuable reference for advanced students and researchers.
    Presents a data-driven argument for the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance in achieving political change. It offers valuable insights into the dynamics of conflict and the potential of nonviolent strategies in peacebuilding efforts.
    Examines the different strategies that can be used to prevent terrorism. Rapoport argues that there is no single foolproof solution, but that a combination of approaches is likely to be most effective.
    Examines the psychological factors that motivate terrorists. Horgan argues that terrorists are not simply crazy or evil, but rather that they are often driven by a combination of personal and political grievances.
    This textbook provides a concise and accessible introduction to the field of international peacebuilding. It covers core concepts, theoretical discussions, and key areas of practice, making it suitable for students new to the topic.
    Part of 'The Little Books of Justice and Peacebuilding' series, this book provides a clear and accessible overview of the fundamental principles and practices of conflict transformation. It practical guide for individuals and communities engaging with conflict.
    Another valuable contribution to 'The Little Books' series, this book provides a framework for strategic peacebuilding that integrates a vision of peace with justice. It practical guide for developing effective peacebuilding strategies.
    Offers a feminist perspective on war and conflict, which is essential for understanding the gendered dynamics of violence and peacebuilding. It provides a critical lens for analyzing traditional approaches to international relations and security.
    Focuses on the root causes of conflict and offers a framework for resolving conflicts by changing one's own perspective and attitude. It provides valuable insights into the personal dimension of peacebuilding.
    Explores the potential for dialogue between Chinese and Christian civilizations, arguing that both traditions share a commitment to values such as harmony and social justice.
    Explores the Catholic Church's perspective on interfaith dialogue, arguing that it essential tool for promoting peace and understanding in the world.
    Foundational text in the field of peace education, exploring its theory and practice. Peace education crucial component of long-term peacebuilding efforts, focusing on transforming values and attitudes to create a culture of peace.
    Understanding international criminal law is important in peacebuilding, particularly in addressing accountability for atrocities. provides insights into the practice of international criminal law.
    Explores the Hindu perspective on interfaith dialogue, arguing that it essential tool for promoting peace and understanding in the world.
    Explores the historical roots of terrorism, arguing that it phenomenon that has been with us for centuries. Laqueur traces the development of terrorism from the French Revolution to the present day, and argues that it product of both political and social factors.
    While not exclusively about large-scale peacebuilding, this book's focus on compassionate communication is highly relevant for building positive relationships and resolving conflicts at all levels. It provides practical skills applicable in peacebuilding contexts.
    Provides a concise overview of terrorism, covering its history, causes, and consequences. Townshend argues that terrorism complex phenomenon that cannot be reduced to a single definition.
    Contains overviews of the major causes and consequences of radicalization. It does not focus on a specific religion or ideology. The author himself former member of the terrorist group al-Qaeda.
    Provides a comprehensive review of the literature on radicalization and de-radicalization. It offers a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners who are working to understand and address this complex issue.

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