How do educational systems perpetuate or challenge structural violence?

Educational systems can both perpetuate and challenge structural violence through their policies, curriculum, and institutional practices.

Educational systems can perpetuate structural violence by reinforcing societal inequalities and biases. This can occur through the curriculum, where certain histories, perspectives, and knowledge are prioritised over others, often reflecting the dominant culture or power structures. For instance, the marginalisation of indigenous histories and cultures in many educational curriculums can contribute to the ongoing structural violence against these communities. Similarly, the lack of representation and inclusivity in the curriculum can reinforce stereotypes and prejudices, contributing to structural violence against marginalised groups.

Moreover, educational policies and practices can also perpetuate structural violence. For example, school disciplinary policies that disproportionately target students from certain racial or socio-economic backgrounds can reinforce societal inequalities and prejudices. The 'school-to-prison pipeline' in the United States, where harsh school disciplinary practices disproportionately affect African American students and contribute to their overrepresentation in the criminal justice system, is a stark example of this.

On the other hand, educational systems can also challenge structural violence. They can do this by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and social justice in their curriculum and practices. For instance, incorporating diverse histories, perspectives, and knowledge in the curriculum can challenge dominant narratives and power structures, promoting a more equitable and inclusive society. Similarly, adopting fair and inclusive disciplinary policies can help to challenge societal inequalities and prejudices.

Furthermore, educational systems can challenge structural violence by promoting critical thinking and social consciousness among students. By encouraging students to question and challenge societal norms, biases, and power structures, they can contribute to the transformation of these structures and the reduction of structural violence. For instance, the critical pedagogy approach, which emphasises the role of education in challenging and transforming oppressive structures, is a key example of this.

In conclusion, educational systems play a crucial role in either perpetuating or challenging structural violence. The extent to which they do so depends largely on their policies, curriculum, and institutional practices.