A key component of mass atrocity prevention is understanding the processes and risk factors of prior mass violence events, and the Holocaust serves as an unparalleled case study of mass violence. This open educational resource (OER), developed by RAND experts in collaboration with subject matter experts at the Crane Center for Mass Atrocity Prevention, provides a brief overview of ideas and concepts related to Holocaust education and mass atrocity prevention. By learning about mass atrocities, OER users (such as students) can develop empathy for victims and survivors and better understand the complexities of human behavior. By learning about the social, political, and cultural factors that contributed to these events and understanding how individuals, governments, and institutions failed to prevent them, users can consider their role in promoting social justice and preventing future mass atrocities. This OER can help users develop critical thinking skills, a sense of responsibility, and cultural awareness.
This resource has three modules. Module 1, “Holocaust Education,” introduces learners to Holocaust education resources and activities, including some that demonstrate the continuing impact of the Holocaust in contemporary society. Module 2, Non-Governmental Organizations in Prevention, provides information on the role of organizations in mass atrocity prevention and discusses issues related to other types of mass violence, including mass shootings. Module 3, “Prevention Policy,” presents resources on US and international policies to prevent mass atrocities, along with thought exercises designed to show learners how to apply these resources to proactive efforts to prevent mass violence.
Funding for this research was provided by a generous gift from Keith Sachs. The research was conducted by the RAND Center for the Advancement of Racial Equality Policy under the RAND Social and Economic Well-Being, in collaboration with the Crane Center for the Prevention of Mass Atrocities.
This report is part of the RAND Corporation Tool series. RAND tools can include models, databases, calculators, computer code, GIS mapping tools, practical guides, web applications, and various toolkits. All RAND instruments undergo rigorous peer review to ensure both high data standards and appropriate methodology, consistent with RAND’s quality and objectivity.
This document and trademark(s) are protected by law. This RAND intellectual property presentation is provided for non-commercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited. Linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce or otherwise use any of its research papers for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.
The RAND Corporation is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decision-making through research and analysis. RAND’s publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.