Recent BI and Substack Posts

Coexistence offers a promising alternative to today's all-out struggle for dominance among competing socio-cultural groups. #mbi_fundamentals

Today's culture wars are largely attributable to the fact that the different generations adapted their beliefs to very different social conditions. #mbi_fundamentals

We are facing a deliberate effort to make us hate one another to the point where democratic governance is no longer possible. We can't let it succeed. #mbi_to_do

Assuming that we get through the immediate crisis, we will need a major effort to improve the way in which we handle our conflicts. This Initiative is a place to start.

At the moment, it seems like most everyone is wishing that the other side would somehow just disappear. That's not a solution.

Before civility can provide an alternative to today's hyper-partisan dysfunction, we need a clear image of what civility is and isn't.

We need to think about social problems as complex adaptive systems requiring massively parallel problem-solving. #mbi_cci

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.