Book Summary : Conflicts by Edward de Bono
Edward de Bono’s book “Conflicts” examines the nature of conflict, how it develops, and how it might be resolved. Nine chapters, each of which discusses a distinct facet of conflict, make up the book.
The Necessity of Conflict
The first chapter makes the case that conflict is an essential component of human connection and that, when handled correctly, it may be beneficial. It defines “constructive conflict” and demonstrates how it might result in better choices and results.
A group of coworkers who have diverse ideas about how to finish a job could serve as an example of constructive conflict. They are able to determine the advantages and disadvantages of each suggestion through polite discussion and debate, and they ultimately develop a solution that combines the greatest features of all.
The Anatomy of Conflict
This chapter examines the various forms of conflict and their causes. It covers the significance of comprehending the root causes of conflict as well as how to spot and deal with them.
A disagreement between two friends who believe they should meet up at a different time and location is an example of a conflict brought on by misunderstanding. They can settle the disagreement and prevent such misconceptions by outlining their expectations and providing further information.
The Elements of a Conflict Situation
The main components of a conflict scenario are discussed in the third chapter, including the parties engaged, the issues at hand, and the underlying interests and values. It demonstrates how comprehending these components might aid in dispute resolution.
A quarrel between two neighbours over a tree that is obstructing one’s view could serve as an illustration of how to recognise the underlying interests and values in a conflict. They might be able to reach an amicable settlement if they recognise that one neighbour values the tree for its environmental advantages while the other values the view for its aesthetic appeal.
The Strategy of Conflict
Conflict resolution techniques such as avoidance, competitiveness, collaboration, compromise, and accommodation are covered in this chapter. It discusses when each tactic should be used and how to do so successfully.
A team of employees working on a project together could serve as an illustration of how cooperation can be used as a conflict resolution tactic. They are able to develop a solution that takes into account everyone’s input and yields a stronger final product by cooperating and exchanging ideas.
The Tactics of Conflict
The fifth chapter is devoted to conflict resolution strategies, including negotiating, threatening, and influencing. It covers each tactic’s benefits and drawbacks as well as proper application.
A negotiation between two businesses could serve as an illustration of the use of threat as a conflict resolution strategy. If the opposing company doesn’t accept specific conditions, one company may threaten to withdraw from the agreement.
The Psychology of Conflict
The psychological aspects of conflict, such as emotions, perceptions, and biases, are examined in this chapter. It describes how to control these variables to stop conflicts from growing and degenerating.
A argument between two parents about how to punish their child could serve as an illustration of how to handle emotions in a quarrel. They may have a fruitful conversation about what is best for their child by being aware of and controlling their emotions.
The Politics of Conflict
The political aspects of conflict, including power dynamics, interests, and agendas, are covered in the seventh chapter. It describes how to move between these dimensions to settle disputes and get results that are advantageous to both parties.
Understanding power dynamics in conflict can be demonstrated by looking at a rent dispute between a tenant and landlord. Despite having fewer resources and sway than the landlord, the tenant can negotiate more forcefully if they are aware of the legal safeguards that are available to them.
The Ethics of Conflict
Fairness, respect, and responsibility are just a few of the ethical issues in dispute resolution that are examined in this chapter. It discusses how to strike a compromise between conflicting ethical ideals to get the greatest results.
A debate between two coworkers over credit for a project could serve as an illustration of how to balance ethical factors in conflict. They can reach a win-win agreement by appreciating the value of fairness and respecting each other’s efforts.
The Future of Conflict
The last chapter considers how disputes might develop and change over the following years. It contends that as the world grows more interconnected and interdependent, conflict resolution will become more crucial.
An international body planning for probable conflicts brought on by climate change is an example of forecasting future conflicts. They can aid in preventing conflicts from developing and becoming more difficult to resolve by predicting the difficulties and taking proactive measures to address them.
“Conflicts” is a thorough manual on comprehending and handling conflict. It offers useful approaches, ideas, and instruments for ethically and productively settling disputes. Anybody who wishes to develop their conflict resolution skills, from individuals to companies to entire countries, will benefit greatly from reading this book.
