Conflict resolution: a recontextualization

Abstract

Challenges one of the dominant assumptions of the current cultural paradigm, namely that conflict is inevitable between people and groups with differing goals, values and priorities. Given that conflict is seen as inevitable, the field of conflict resolution has arisen to resolve conflict through a variety of techniques and behavioural tools. Two main schools of thought exist on the issue: (1) the traditional school, whose approach sees conflict as “bad” and its elimination as desirable; (2) the interactionist or modern school, whose approach sees conflict as functional and in need of being “managed” effectively. Virtually no one in the field would even suggest that a conflict‐free state could be reached. Argues that the technology for understanding and creating such a state exists and is available for use.

Citation

Banner, D.K. (1995), "Conflict resolution: a recontextualization", Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 16 No. 1, pp. 31-34. https://doi.org/10.1108/01437739510076449