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Constructive Conflict Guide >
The Complex Factors That Make Intractable Conflict So Difficult >
Deep-Rooted Core Differences
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BI Article
Unmet Human Needs
Human essentials go beyond just food, water, and shelter. They include all those things humans are innately driven to attain, such as love, dignity and safety. Some theorists argue that most intractable conflicts are caused by the drive to satisfy unmet needs.
BI Article
Humiliation
While commonly used, humiliation is extremely destructive--to its victims, and also, often, to the person or group doing the humiliating as well.
BI Article
Dehumanization
An essay describing the psychology and dangers of dehumanization, which is now widely afflicting the U.S as well as other places.
BI Article
Victimhood
Victimhood has a dual nature---people can be both ashamed and proud of their victim status at the same time.
BI Article
Siege Mentality
Many societies believe that other societies have negative intentions towards them. But with the "siege mentality," the situation is far more extreme. They believe that the entire world is hostile toward them.
Subsidiary Folders
Identity Issues
Since identity is a fundamental human need, identity conflicts are among the most intractable, as all identity groups want to be respected and treated fairly.
Subsidiary Folders
Security Issues
Security is another fundamental human need. It includes not only immediate physical security, but long term security--knowing that one's needs and safety will be met, and psychological security, knowing that one's beliefs and ways of living will not be under attack.
Colleague Activities
Basic Human Needs: The Next Steps in Theory Development
News and Opinion
Is there a legal right to free choice of ethno-racial identity?
An academic look at another reason why combating racism is so difficult--legal and political difficulties in defining membership boundaries.
News and Opinion
The Attitude of Empire
Moral superiority and insecurity are a deadly combination.
News and Opinion
Security- what is it?
Security is one of the fundamental human needs that has to be met for peacebuilding to be successful. This essay explores the concept.