Discusses methods of teaching about the history of genocide and the potential for its occurrence today. Encourages students to confront commonly-held beliefs in order to understand human rights abuses. Studies current genocidal tendencies, such as those in Iran, to demonstrate the "latent potential in all of us to allow such evil to occur."…

Citing current events such as genocide in Cambodia, the author stresses the importance of teaching students about genocide and the Holocaust. She discusses current curriculum development efforts in this area, particularly a high school course developed by New Jersey teachers. (SJL)