A critique of Western conflict resolution from a non-Western perspective

Abstract

The following are reflections on premises and assumptions of Western conflict resolution as viewed from another cultural perspective, in this case, Arab. They derive from exposure to conflict resolution writings and simulations in a Western milieu and experience of teaching conflict resolution in a non-Western context, namely in Beirut. The article aims to present a tentative critique of some hidden assumptions in Western approach to conflict resolution, and to provide some insights into macro-cultural framework to which Western conflict resolution approaches must adapt if they are to be used in Arab -- or perhaps also in other areas of non-Western world. One must make clear from beginning that any attempt to make broad generalizations about two diverse and loosely defined cultural and social groupings as the West and the Arab world is fraught with dangers of reductionism, essentialism, and simplification, to say nothing of Edward Said's Orientalism (Said, 1978). The effort of finding general cultural patterns and tendencies, however, is, I think, well worth risk and effort; and generalizations presented are oniy intended as food for thought and signposts for fttrther research rather than as definitive conclusions. Also, it should not be understood from text that Arab society does not have effective conflict resolution methods of its own. Indeed, such methods are widespread and considerably effective. This article, however, is more strictly concerned with comparative perspective rather than with exploring indigenous Arab methods of conflict resolution.