Spreading a message of nonviolence is a crucial part of positive globalization, peace and justice activist Michael Nagler stressed in his speech Thursday night in Wells Hall.

MSU's Peace and Justice Studies Program presented the second annual Peace and Justice Studies Lecture on Thursday night.

Nagler, the founder and former chair of Peace and Conflict Studies at University of California at Berkeley, has spread his ideas across the country and written books concerning nonviolence and globalization.

"The nation state has become subordinate to this network of corporations," Nagler said, stressing the need for a nonviolent fight against negative, corporate globalization.

Community members came to hear Nagler's opinions and learn more about globalization.

"I think especially in the times we're experiencing in this country, things like this are really important," Amanda Batts, a family community services junior, said. "To have things like this for the community to come to hear views that aren't the status quo fosters discussion and is really important, now more than ever."

Lansing resident Tim Bogar came to the speech to develop his opinion on nonviolence.

"I'm trying to figure out if nonviolence makes sense," he said. "I'm against war, but with all the stuff going on in the world, I'm confused on how to wage peace."

Bogar said that he needed a recharge, because sometimes the situation feels hopeless.

Nagler discussed the views of nonviolent leaders, such as Ghandi, and provided his own list of things people can do for the nonviolence movement.

He recommends cutting down on intake of mass media, taking care of oneself spiritually and psychologically, acting kindly to people and learning more about nonviolence.