This is a thought provoking study, which through a blend of theory, activism, and detailed empiricism, exposes a paradox at the heart of peace thinking: the tension between colonial and universalist epistemology and liberation or self determination. It is a much needed contribution. Prof. Oliver Richmond Univ. of Manchester Author of "The Transformation of Peace" (2007) In this book, Victoria Fontan questions the pre-established assumptions that exist in peace and conflict studies, and brings forward an alternative epistemology that relates to non-conventional initiatives for peace that exist in various parts of the world. She argues that the first step toward decolonizing peace and conflict studies must be our realization that we are powerless in facing the destruction and injustices that we invariably bring with our peace. Victoria Fontan is Associate Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies and Head, Department of Peace and Conflict Studies at the UN-mandated University for Peace in Costa Rica. She conducted field research in Lebanon, post-Saddam Iraq, DR Congo, Somaliland and Kashmir. Recently, she has been exploring post-liberal dimensions of Peace and Conflict Studies.