We live in an era of transition, the scope and depth of which goes beyond anything yet witnessed in human history. Our program supports students who wish to examine spiritual or faith-based approaches to conflict, acknowledging the age-old quest of the human spirit toward transcendence. We recognize and honor values and ethics embedded in different cultural and religious traditions, as well as look for ways to resolve differences, reach reconciliation and create social healing. At the same time, our program places an emphasis on human rights as part of a transformative process of social reconstruction and reconciliation. Attention to human rights issues can promote social justice and civic participation and support the establishment of institutions consonant with these norms.

We believe that achieving global consensus for a humane, ecologically viable, new global system is possible. Transformation at both the individual and societal levels is necessary to achieve this possibility. From this perspective, a new global system requires new political and social arrangements, a new (or renewed) vision of humankind’s existential reality and purpose, and increased recognition and competence in dealing with cultural differences.