About Book

This article critically examines how traditional schooling systems may unintentionally contribute to cultures of violence, and contrasts them with the principles of peace education. The authors argue that “normal” schooling often reflects authoritarian structures, competition, and passive learning, which can reinforce obedience, inequality, and even acceptance of violence. In contrast, peace education promotes participatory learning, critical thinking, equality, and democratic values. It encourages students to question injustice, resolve conflicts nonviolently, and engage constructively with diversity. The article highlights how school environments, teacher-student relationships, and institutional cultures shape attitudes toward violence and peace. The authors also discuss the concept of the “hidden curriculum”, where values such as hierarchy, discipline, and conformity are implicitly taught, sometimes contradicting the goals of peace and cooperation. They emphasize that transforming education systems requires structural changes, not just adding peace-related content. Strengths: Provides a clear conceptual distinction between traditional schooling and peace education. Introduces the important idea of the hidden curriculum. Strong theoretical grounding with practical implications for education reform. Highly relevant for youth-focused prevention strategies. Limitations: Primarily theoretical, with limited empirical case studies. Focuses on education systems broadly rather than specific regional contexts. Implementation challenges are discussed but not deeply operationalized.This article is highly significant for extremism prevention, as it shows how education systems shape attitudes toward authority, conflict, and violence. By promoting critical thinking, inclusion, and dialogue, peace education can reduce susceptibility to extremist ideologies. It also contributes to long-term peacebuilding and social cohesion, particularly through youth engagement. While it does not directly address rehabilitation programs, its preventive framework is essential for reducing the need for such interventions.