Description: Despite the view that civil war involves violent contests for power between armed combatants, people and groups routinely engage in civil action in the midst of war. Civil action is behavior characterized by a reluctance to engage in violence and a willingness to abide by a minimal level of respect in order to maximize engagement with others. Civil action often prevents or tamps down violence, although it can sometimes escalate violence as well. This volume explores the ways civil action has affected dynamics of violence in Syria, Peru, Kenya, Northern Ireland, Mexico, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Spain, and Colombia, highlighting the crucial and often-neglected role that civil action has played in deciding the fates of conflicts around the world.
Review Quotes: "One of the most important recent findings is that civil action can be a surprisingly effective way for citizens to keep their governments in line while avoiding violence. If you want to know how citizens can do this-even in an era of democratic decline-read this book. It couldn't come at a better time."--Barbara F. Walter, Professor of Political Science, University of California, San Diego
"Studies of conflict focus primarily on violence and generally see civilians as victims of this violence. This excellent book shows how nonviolent activities by non-state actors can build and maintain relationships in the middle of fighting, lead to lower levels of violence, and contribute to the resolution of civil wars. A series of impressive case studies of conflicts from Syria to Northern Ireland and Bosnia to Afghanistan show the many and important ways that civil action can shape the dynamics of civil wars."-David E. Cunningham, Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Government and Politics, University of Maryland