20th Century Roots and Branches of Nonviolence Theory
Presented by: Bill Warters
Presented at: Ashland Center for Nonviolence Spirit of Peace Conference
Date of Session: March 21, 2026
Session Description: In this presentation, we explore various influencers who impacted the theory and practice of nonviolence in our modern world. In addition to well-known people like Gandhi and King, we’ll dig deeper into the ground on which nonviolence has grown, in both spiritual and secular contexts. Drawing on the work of Quaker nonviolence scholar Jo Vellacott, we’ll touch on the various approaches to nonviolent action advocated by folks such as Harry David Thoreau, Leo Tolstoy, Catherine Marshall, Dorothy Day, Gene Sharp, and Ursula Franklin. As we shall see, where nonviolent action has been most effective, the participants have often undergone something of a transformative experience either in training or during the action; with many aware of a strong spiritual component in their empowerment. Let’s think together about how to nurture this for future generations.