Conflict Resolution as Necessity, Practice, and Ideal

Abstract

In recent years two broad approaches to public policy have emerged which offer solutions for the problems of government, one based on the market and the other based on conflict resolution This paper argues that both policy approaches are plagued by problems caused by inequality and coercion Part I reviews the normative bases of the market, including discussion of how a system of property rights, enforced by government must exist in order to determine exactly who is free to do what Part II is a presentation of the conflict resolution approach and its pitfalls, especially when this activity is carried out between unequal parties Finally, Part III spells out the conditions for non-coercive conflict resolution The basis is the extension of rights which are universal and inalienable in order to achieve a more egalitarian society