Intersection of Game Theory and Attribution Theory with Deutsch's Theory of Cooperation and Competition

Abstract

In this essay, I explore Deutsch’s theory of cooperation and competition offering my own thoughts and a new explanatory diagram. I look at where Deutsch’s work intersects with game theory and attribution theory. I suggest how Deutsch’s ideas might sit with the shift in thinking argued by social constructionists. Throughout this critical examination of Deutsch’s theory, I ask how it might assist conflict resolution trainers to prepare mediators for work in the ‘eye of the storm’ (Adler 2008). Morton Deutsch’s biographer has called him the ‘father of Conflict Resolution’ (Frydenberg 2005). In the second half of the twentieth century he has helped shape both popular and academic thinking about conflict between individuals and among groups. The origins of interest-based conflict resolution are apparent in his work well before the bestselling book Getting to Yes (Deutsch 1949, Fisher et al 1981). From my experience as a trainer of mediators, I contend that Professor Deutsch’s name is mostly unknown to British conflict resolvers despite their practice drawing heavily on the ideas he has developed over the last 60 years. Erica Frydenberg (2005) makes a similar point about business students being more likely to be familiar with the work of Roger Fisher. The extensive reading lists posted on the websites of CEDR and Core Solutions Group do not cite any of Deutsch’s work (CEDR 2009 and CORE 2008).