Emotion: the missing ingredient in conflict analysis

Abstract

A conceptual framework is proposed to understand the role of emotions in conflict. Taking a multidisciplinary approach, we suggest why the evaluation of emotions is crucial to the improvement of current conflict analysis and resolution techniques. We begin by outlining the critical features of a conflict. The use of appraisal theory for emotion activation and differentiation shows why conflict is often laden with emotion, and why emotion is relevant to conflict analysis. The confrontation between the United States and North Korea over nuclear weapons proliferation illustrates the emotional states associated with decision makers' positions. Our goal is to draw attention to the centrality of emotion in conflict and to the need for research on the incorporation of emotions into conflict analysis and resolution methods.