The Promise of Communication and Education for Peace and Democracy

Effective communication across multiple levels and contexts, as well as an informed and educated citizenry, is essential for addressing crises, reducing conflicts, and maintaining peace. In this chapter, the authors examine educational systems in a " post-truth” world and the new global realities they face as educators and citizens. Next, they view the importance of communication through the lens of the discourse of renewal theory, a prominent crisis communication theory for organizational renewal in times of crisis. Then, the authors explore the ecological interdependence of effective communication, education, democracy, and peace and make the argument for connecting communication and education disciplines to help support, sustain, and enhance democracy and peace. Lastly, they provide chapter highlights from authors around the world who provide a range of cutting-edge and unique frameworks, models, and theories; original research findings from ongoing research programs; and evidence-based practices from which to examine and address these global challenges to peace and democracy.