Religious Leaders and Conflict Transformation

'The complexities of the Troubles have long been a source of concern for scholars. Sandal's in depth and nuanced inquiry into the role of religious actors in helping to end the conflict in Northern Ireland is a ground-breaking work which takes our knowledge significantly forward. It should be read by all with an interest in conflict, conflict resolution and peace-making.' Jeffrey Haynes, Director of the Centre for the Study of Religion, Conflict and Cooperation, London Metropolitan University 'Demonstrating that religious communities were indispensable for bringing about peace in Northern Ireland, Nukhet A. Sandal's book is innovative at two levels. Unlike most political scientists and peace scholars, she shows that religion is indispensable for political processes. Unlike many of the political scientists who do study religious actors, she shows that the influence of these actors lies in their very religious convictions. Carefully argued and thoroughly evidenced, including through extensive conversations with these very actors, Sandal's study promises to change the conversation about religion, politics, and peace.' Daniel Philpott, University of Notre Dame and author of Just and Unjust Peace 'How do religious leaders promote ideas about peace? Sandal shows that they are knowledge producers, engaged in public theology capable of transforming conflicts. Her research is empirically rich, compelling, and exciting, a fascinating contribution to the study of religion and current affairs.' Ron Hassner, University of California, Berkeley and author of Religion on the Battlefield