The Neutrality Trap

chapter fourconstructive engagement

“The only sensible and intelligent way of resolving differences and clashes of interests, whether between individuals or nations, is through dialogue.”

—The Dalai Lama

“When angry, count to four; when very angry, swear.”

—Mark Twain

Constructive conflict engagement is the common goal that conflict interveners, advocates for social change, and peace builders share. At our best, none of us in any of these roles wants to suppress essential conflict or take away anyone's legitimate voice. Conflict specialists may concentrate on how to create the space for people to work on the specific issues that divide them. Change advocates may emphasize the need for system change and how to build the personal connections and structures that can accomplish this. Peace builders may focus on “positive peace,” how to address the most basic needs people and societies have that if met will lay the groundwork for not only the end of hostilities but a long‐term framework for harmony. Mediators may look for opportunities to carve out negotiated solutions to divisive issues.

None of these goals can be met without confronting the essential role of conflict. Without an effective approach to confronting our differences over time in a way that is powerful and yet constructive, the issues that divide us will continue to do so, significant social change will not be achieved, and peace will prove elusive or ephemeral. But what do we mean by constructive engagement and ...