Nonviolence Education as a practice of rehumanization

Can self-enquiry practices positively reshape teachers’ relationship with their social world?

Abstract

The underlying philosophy of nonviolence encourages practitioners to recognize the humanity in those who are different or thought of as less valuable. Developing empathy is a key in that recognition, and this is why it was a key component of a nonviolence training program undertaken with trainee teachers in Chile. Participants engaged in a series of exercises aimed at fostering empathy and compassion, informed by the principles of contemplative pedagogy. Challenges notwithstanding, results show success in recognizing the many shared elements of our human experience and in helping participants develop feelings of warmth and closeness towards others.