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Beyond Intractability: A Free Knowledge Base on More Constructive Approaches to Destructive Conflict
   


Stereotypes / Characterization Frames





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Louis Kriesberg observes that blaming the other side is common, but believes it actually disempowers the blamer.

Sarah Cobb discusses the ways in which people typically frame their stories about conflict.

Wallace Warfield discusses the role of the mediator and says sometimes the mediator's role is simply to help people find ways of being good to each other.

S.Y. Bowland on cultural stereotypes.

Mark Gerzon talks about the divisive stereotypes that contribute to poor inter-party relationships in the House of Representatives.

Mohammed Abu-Nimer, a Palestinian peacebuilder, sees interfaith dialogue as a sure way to break down stereotypes, establish relationships, and humanize "the other" in intractable conflicts between people of differing faiths.

Mohammed Abu-Nimer, a Palestinian peacebuilder, challenges the stereotype that Islam is a violent religion.

Ron Fisher, of American University, talks about the need to rebuild relationships in Cyprus to bring about reconciliation.

Silke Hansen discusses the importance of looking past racial overtones, and focusing on the real issues of a particular conflict.

Nancy Ferrell explains how you need to overtly change erroneous perceptions and work hard to figure out what those perceptions are.
This rough transcript provides a text alternative to audio. We apologize for occasional errors and unintelligible sections (which are marked with ???).

 
I swore never to be silent whenever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. -- Elie Weisel

Featured Links
Organizations Making Noteworthy Contributions to Efforts to Promote More Constructive Conflict
Coordination SUD
Coordination SUD (Solidarite, Urgence, Developpment)


Other Resources from
Beyond Intractability
Peacebuilding Checklist: For Adversaries
Peacebuilding Checklist: Adversaries

A list of things to think about if you are involved in a difficult or damaging conflict.

Nobel Peace Prize Winners

Joseph Rotblat
Joseph Rotblat

Prominent opponent of nuclear weaponry, and 1995 Nobel Peace Laureate

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