Recent BI and Substack Posts

This short video introduces one of the most widely used and cited exercises ever to come out of the peacebuilding field. Lederach offers a realistic way of thinking through the tough issues that plague deeply-divided societies #mbi_cci

It is hard to fight for justice when you don't know what it means. This essay helps you decide what types of justice are worth fighting for. #mbi_cci

For a time when it seems like everyone thinks they're being oppressed by someone, a comprehensive look at what oppression really is and what to do about it. #mbi_fundamentals

As we struggle to navigate the terrible storm produced by the pandemic, the economic crisis, and climate-related disasters, it makes sense to adopt a lifeboat ethic, put aside our differences, and work together to address the big threats. #mbi_cci

For a time when it seems like our differences are unbridgeable, a guide to finding what binds us together and dealing with what drives us apart. #mbi_cci

An eloquent and persuasive defense, with lots of statistics, of the United States' many "welfare state" programs. #mbi_context

For those who are looking for a way to be part of efforts to start reconciling our divided society, Bill Ury offers great advice, become a Third Sider. #mbi_cci

We just had an election that both sides felt they couldn't lose. Now, our ability to reunify the US depends upon overcoming misinformation and assuring Republicans that, even in defeat, their vital interests be still be protected. #mbi_cci

We need to remember that, in many ways, coercion is the weakest form of power. It generates a terrible and often counterproductive backlash. The real key to sustainable change is persuasion and exchange. #mbi_cci

We must address extremist groups' grievances, while standing firm against their extreme actions. By focusing on commonalities, as well as differences, we can find a path forward. #mbi_colleague

As outrage on all sides continues to intensify, we need to find more effective ways of resisting the dehumanization that threatens more violence. #mbi_cci

A reminder that, amid today's racially-focused acrimony, we must find a way to work together to combat new types of 21st-century injustice. #mbi_cci

For a time when there are lots of things that, for good reason, make us furious, a reminder that too much anger can be a trap. #mbi_cci

The U.S. desperately needs reconciliation at a time when it is going to be especially difficult for us to reconcile. #mbi_frontiers

Exceptionally wise advice from South Africa on how to overcome polarization with vision, humanism, inclusion, and a balancing of truth, peace, and justice. #mbi_cci

The U.S. is desperately needs reconciliation at a time when it is going to be especially difficult for us to reconcile.

Introducing "desire paths," and the importance of designing change to follow them whenever possible.

Given the difficulty of the conflict problems we face, it's clear that there is not going to be a quick solution. We need to start thinking about a longer-term effort. #mbi_cci

A series of video lectures that apply Massively Parallel Peacebuilding to the interrelated challenges of populism and rising authoritarianism. #mbi_frontiers

Cynicism, reinventing the wheel, information friction and overload are among the problems that need to be tackled. #mbi_frontiers

Here's a start of a list of things you can do to be a part of a Massively Parallel Peacebuilding effort. #mbi_frontiers

The civil rights movement, and the environmental movement are both successful applications of a "massively parallel" strategy. #mbi_frontiers

Massively Parallel Peacebuilding enlists everyone engaged in or affected by conflict to help change its destructive course. #mbi_frontiers

Good conflict resolution skills are not just for peacebuilders--they are crucial for disputants as well. #mbi_frontiers

In 1988, it looked as if democracy and peace were advancing globally. Now they are both retreating. Can we reverse that trend? #mbi_frontiers