Strategic Nonviolent Conflict: The Dynamics of People Power in the Twentieth Century [Paperback]

Peter Ackerman (Author), Christopher Kruegler (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0275939162 | ISBN-13: 978-0275939168 | Publication Date: December 30, 1993

Nonviolent action, well planned and implemented, is shown in this lucid, timely, and compelling work to effect dramatic outcomes against opponents utilizing violence. Ackerman and Kruegler recognize that not all nonviolent efforts meet with success and they are careful to stress that a nonviolent approach involves great risks as well as opportunities. It is the effectiveness of the strategies employed which will determine whether those using nonviolent means can prevail against opponents who rely on violence in pursuit of objectives. Twelve principles of strategic nonviolence are established in this book--they serve as a conceptual foundation and enhance the prospects of success in nonviolent campaigns of resistance. The authors also develop six twentieth century examples of nonviolent action from the early Russian Revolution of 1904-1906 through the Solidarity movement in 1980-1981. Each campaign narrative constitutes a fascinating reading experience and illustrates common themes, strategies, and important aspects of behavior on the part of major participants in nonviolent encounters. This is a singularly important book. It offers more than a mere plea for nonviolence. Ackerman and Kruegler provide hard lessons based on important, and often painful, historical efforts: principles to govern the choice and implementation of strategies when nonviolence is the determined response; and insightful analysis to guide assessment and policy. Finally, the authors consider the evolving international situation and relate current themes and policies to the potential inherent in astute and deliberate programs of nonviolence. A work which will focus analysis, impact decision-making, stimulate policy consideration, and invigorate research, this volume will well serve professionals and students in international relations and numerous related fields.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“If the world has indeed entered a new era, and if global communications make every conflict more visible and the use of military force seem more reprehensible to mankind at large, then the possiblities for successful nonviolent conflict would seem to have broadened. By analyzing the cases they present, Ackerman and Kruegler have done pioneer work in trying to show how such actions have a better chance of success.”–The Christian Science Monitor

“This is an excellent book, well-written and well-researched, with the potential to guide both future research and to inform nonviolent activists.”–Fellowship

About the Author

PETER ACKERMAN is Managing Director of Rockport Financial, Ltd. and Rockport Partners, Inc. in London.

CHRISTOPHER KRUEGLER is President of The Albert Einstein Institution, Inc. in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Product Details

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Praeger Paperback (December 30, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0275939162
• ISBN-13: 978-0275939168
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.2 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #475,740 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This books insights are needed today in America., November 18, 1999

By 

Eric O'Keefe ([e-mail]) (Spring Green, Wisconsin, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Strategic Nonviolent Conflict: The Dynamics of People Power in the Twentieth Century (Paperback)

This is a terrific book which uses case studies to draw concrete lessons for peaceful political activity. Their application in places like Cuba and China is fairly obvious, but the lessons are needed by political activists in America as well. Election to the Congress today brings virtual life tenure; incumbents have rigged the system so that 395 of the 402 candidates running for reelection to the House in 1998 won.

Reformers need a way to revive the political system by working outside of conventional political channels, and this book offers guidelines.

The specific ideas for refining strategy can save reformers thousands of hours and dollars, and make the difference between success and failure. Very valuable.

3 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Political jiu-jitsu which will save lives, maybe nations., January 16, 1999

By 

Private Biographer (SF, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Strategic Nonviolent Conflict: The Dynamics of People Power in the Twentieth Century (Paperback)

Case-study approach brings instructive reality to this generative collection of insights into thoughtful revolution. If you cherish self-determination, enjoy political science and/or strategic studies -- savor this book. Send 1000 copies to Iraq, China, Cuba....