This theory-based introduction to peace studies provides coverage of theories relevant to peace studies: peace; conflict; development; civilizations; and economics. It provides an analogy between peace studies and health studies, and makes a strong case for a transdisciplinary approach.

Hall offers a wide-ranging exploration of the issues surrounding cultural identity. He outlines the reasons why the question of identity is so compelling and yet so problematic. Outstanding contributors then interrogate different dimensions of the crisis of identity providing both theoretical and substantive insights into different approaches to understanding identity.