Resolution: Transforming Conflict and Violence

Abstract

There are three major areas I want to address tonight. First is the development of the field of conflict resolution and the establishment and growth of the Center here at George Mason. Second, I will focus on what we mean by ‘resolution’ among all the many possible responses to social conflict and a dimension I have been exploring recently: the concept of transformation in individuals and in the conflict relationship as peacemaking takes place. Finally, I want to talk about some of the challenges we face in this exciting field, which is now on the edge of what I have called the ‘ravages of success.’ We have been successful enough to begin to face some of the predicted Weberian problems of bureaucratization and rationalization and, as I would put it, the unique combination that happens when original sin and organizational sin get together.