Bridges and Barriers to a More General Theory of Conflict

Examines areas of both similarity & difference between interpersonal & international conflict. Regarding similarities, all conflict: (1) derives from perceived divergence of interest; (2) can be addressed in a relatively small number of ways -- domination, capitulation, inaction, withdrawal, third party intervention, & negotiation; (3) contains a mixture of motives -- cooperative, competitive, & individualistic; (4) can be ended through either behavior or attitude change; (5) leads to outcomes that range from purely destructive to purely constructive; & (6) stems from a broad but consistent variety of causal antecedents. Differences between interpersonal & international conflict include: (A) number of parties; (B) number of issues; (C) power asymmetry; (D) enforceability of agreements; (E) effectiveness of third-party intervention; (F) audiences; (G) representative negotiation; (H) information about one's counterpart; (I) trust; & (J) institutions & bureaucracies. 31 References. Modified AA