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Nonviolence: The New Story of Human Nature

Victor Hugo

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Published in The Third Harmony: Nonviolence And The New Story Of Human Nature

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In their groundbreaking book, Nonviolence: The New Story of Human Nature, Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan challenge the traditional view of human nature as inherently violent. Drawing on extensive research, they argue that nonviolence is a more powerful and effective way to achieve social change.

The Third Harmony: Nonviolence and the New Story of Human Nature

by Michael N Nagler

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2334 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages

Chenoweth and Stephan begin by debunking the myth that violence is natural and inevitable. They show that violence is actually a relatively rare occurrence in human history. In fact, they argue that nonviolence has been the driving force behind some of the most significant social changes in history, from the American civil rights movement to the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The authors identify three key factors that make nonviolence so effective:

It is morally superior. Nonviolence appeals to our sense of justice and fair play. It is a way of fighting for our rights without resorting to violence or hatred.
It is strategically effective. Nonviolence can be used to disrupt the status quo and create change. It can also be used to build relationships and create a more just and equitable world.
It is sustainable. Nonviolence is a way of life that can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their age, race, gender, or religion. It is a way of living in harmony with ourselves, with each other, and with the planet.

Chenoweth and Stephan's book is a powerful and inspiring call to action. They show us that nonviolence is not just a nice idea, but a real and effective way to change the world. If we want to create a more just and equitable future, we need to embrace nonviolence as a way of life.

Praise for Nonviolence: The New Story of Human Nature

"A groundbreaking book that challenges our assumptions about human nature and the role of violence in social change. Chenoweth and Stephan offer a compelling case for nonviolence as a powerful and effective force for good." — Steven Pinker, author of The Better Angels of Our Nature

"A must-read for anyone who wants to understand the true nature of human beings and the power of nonviolence." — Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town

"A brilliant and hopeful book that shows us how nonviolence can be used to create a more just and equitable world." — Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Peace Prize laureate

About the Authors

Erica Chenoweth is a political scientist and author. She is a professor at Harvard University and the author of several books on nonviolent resistance, including Why Civil Resistance Works and The Politics of Nonviolent Action.

Maria J. Stephan is a sociologist and author. She is a professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara and the author of several books on social movements, including The Power of Nonviolent Action and Nonviolent Resistance in the Middle East.