Johan Galtung Norwegian sociologist Date of Birth: 24.10.1930 Country: Norway

1. Birth and Early Life
2. Academic Background
3. Founding of Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO)
4. Publications and Contributions to Sociology
5. Academic Appointments and Positions
6. - President of the World Future Studies Federation
7. Peace Mediation and Conflict Resolution

Birth and Early Life

Johan Galtung, born in Oslo, Norway, on October 24, 1930, is renowned as a Norwegian sociologist and the founder of peace and conflict studies. His lineage boasts a medical background, with his father and paternal grandfather practicing medicine.

Academic Background

Galtung's academic journey began at the University of Oslo, where he earned a mag.art. degree in mathematics in 1956. Pursuing his studies abroad, he spent five semesters as an assistant professor of sociology at Columbia University in New York City.

Founding of Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO)

In 1959, upon his return to Oslo, Galtung established the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO), which he directed until 1969. Under his leadership, PRIO transformed from a department within the Norwegian Institute of Social Research into an independent research institution with Norwegian government funding.

Publications and Contributions to Sociology

Galtung's scholarly contributions are extensive, with over 1000 published articles and more than 100 books. His research spans a wide range of sociological fields, making him a prolific and influential scholar.

Academic Appointments and Positions

Galtung has held numerous academic appointments and positions, including:

- First professor of peace and conflict studies at the University of Oslo (1969-1977)

- Director General of the International University Center in Dubrovnik

- President of the World Future Studies Federation

- Visiting professor at various universities worldwide (Santiago, Chile; United Nations University in Geneva; Columbia, Princeton, and the University of Hawaii)

Peace Mediation and Conflict Resolution

Galtung's early experiences during World War II and his father's arrest by the Nazis shaped his pacifist beliefs. He became involved in peace activism, serving 18 months of social service in lieu of military service but was imprisoned for six months for refusing to comply with the terms of his service.

In 1993, he co-founded the TRANSCEND: Peace Development Environment Network, which promotes conflict transformation through peaceful means. Galtung advocates for a "fifth way" in conflict resolution, where both parties feel they have gained without compromising their core needs of survival, well-being, freedom, and identity.