Boundary critique and its implications for conflict prevention

Midgley, Gerald; Pinzón, L A

Abstract

This paper reviews developments in the theory of boundary critique, which has been used in a number of OR projects to support conflict resolution. The authors argue that this theory (and associated models) is also useful for conflict prevention. It indicates the need to support people in discussing their differences before conflict arises. Potential conflicts can be reframed through dialogue focusing on values, and participative governance can institutionalise fair processes for making decisions in the absence of consensus. Some of the boundary critique models also support people in recognising and countering the systemic conditions that enable stereotyping, stigmatisation and the victimisation of minorities. The paper ends by presenting a new model that was originally developed to inform mediation practice, but also has implications for conflict prevention. This helps explain how different interpretations of a common concern arise, and suggests ways to improve mutual understanding between people and/or reframe the common concern in order to defuse a potential conflict.

Citation

Midgley, G., & Pinzón, L. A. (2011). Boundary critique and its implications for conflict prevention. Journal of the Operational Research Society, 62(8), 1543 - 1554. https://doi.org/10.1057/jors.2010.76

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 1, 2010
• Online Publication Date: Dec 21, 2017
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2011
• Deposit Date: Apr 1, 2022
• Journal: Journal of the Operational Research Society
• Print ISSN: 0160-5682
• Electronic ISSN: 1476-9360
• Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 62
• Issue: 8
• Pages: 1543 - 1554
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/jors.2010.76
• Keywords: Boundary critique; Conflict analysis; Conflict prevention; Critical systems thinking; Problem structuring methods; Systemic intervention
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/417972