Recent BI and Substack Posts

If the ripe moment is allowed to pass, the chance for negotiation may not come again at all soon. #mbi_fundamentals

The backlash coefficient measures the degree to which the quest for victory intensifies, rather than subdues, the opposition. #mbi_fundamentals

It is not enough to address the disproportionate impact of social problems, you also have to equitably address the problem itself.

Should we negotiate or escalate? That's a false question. Social change comes from doing both.

Research on dehumanization is very clear: such speech increases the likelihood of violence, even genocide.

The time is ripe and we have much to contribute do de-escalation: listening, dialogue, reframing, collaboration and more. #mbi_cci

When persuasion isn't enough, power must be added to overcome oppression. But that doesn't mean violence. #mbi_fundamentals

This psychological tendency has caused a lot of avoidable pain and suffering--but it is avoidable. #mbi_fundamentals

Evidence suggests nonviolent action is actually more effective than violence because it minimizes backlash.

Persuasion doesn't have the risks that come with the use of force, and can be very effective.

Escalation often happens very quickly and easily, while de-escalation is typically very slow and difficult. But it is essential, and possible. #mbi_fundamentals

Many have recently awakened to U.S. injustice--but will this awakening last? #mbi_fundamentals

Oppression is maintained through superior power, control of meaning, self-fulfilling prophecies, and distorted relationships.

Polarization is insidious and dangerous. Steps should be taken to avoid it when possible, and reverse it when it has already developed.

Parties, issues, dynamics, power, and relationships are among the conflict elements one must clearly understand.

Oppression has been with us through the ages. Fortunately we have learned many strategies for overcoming it.

Today's biggest question is whether collaborative problem-solving can resist the ongoing and aggressive reassertion of Machiavellian power. #mbi_frontiers

If ever the "peacemakers time is at hand," this is it! Join our effort to help share what peacebuilders know that can help.

Success is usually obtained by using a combination of two or three strategies, not just one--especially not just coercion! #mbi_cci

Opposing today's injustices will require cooperation across the racial divides that were a focus of many of the unrightable wrongs of the past. #mbi_cci

The political discussions about justice this summer of 2020 are very narrow; they should take a much wider view of what encompasses "justice." #mbi_cci

A reflection on the dangerous escalation between police and their communities and how to address that effectively for all constituencies. #mbi_cci

Our tendency to focus on things that make us furious distorts the way we look at the world in ways that threaten rather than advance our interests. #mbi_cci

We are all, in a sense, on one giant lifeboat. Surviving the storm will require us to figure out how to work together more effectively. #mbi_cci

Conflict escalation is, arguably, "the most destructive force on the planet." It is what leads us into war and catastrophic acts of inhumanity. #mbi_cci