Pitt to Present Global Studies Lecture Titled "Theories of Violence Revisited" by Magid Shihade, Visiting Professor in Contemporary International Issues

PITTSBURGH-The University of Pittsburgh's Global Studies Program will present a lecture titled "Theories of Violence Revisited," at 4 p.m. Jan. 21 in 4130 Posvar Hall, 230. S. Bouquet St., Oakland. The free public lecture will be given by Magid Shihade, University Center for International Studies (UCIS) visiting professor in contemporary international issues.

The general explanations for sectarian violence within academia, the media, and the general public are often presented through cultural and religious lenses, according to Shihade. Violence is often explained-especially when it comes to the Middle East-as a result of ancient hatred and conflicts.

Shihade's talk will challenge these perceptions and show the modernity of this violence and how it is related to contemporary politics and history.

Shihade received his PhD in interdisciplinary Near East/Middle East studies from the University of Washington and is currently a research associate in Middle East/South Asia Studies at the University of California, Davis. His research focuses on modernity and violence, in particular on communal conflict, highlighting the role of the state in affecting relationships among different religious and ethnic groups.

The event is sponsored by Pitt's Global Studies Program and UCIS. For more information, contact Veronica Dristas at 412-624-2918 or dristas@pitt.edu.

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