Gestures of Conciliation - by Christopher Mitchell (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Gestures of Conciliation examines the ideas, assumptions and theories that underpin how leaders of parties in intractable conflicts begin and sustain a process of peacemaking by offering to their adversaries 'olive-branches' - in more modern terms symbolic gestures, concessions, tension-reducing moves or confidence-building measures. It discusses means of overcoming political and psychological barriers to accurate communication, trust-building, domestic consensus formation, and 'ripe' conditions for conciliation, suggesting practical guidelines for accommodation.

Review Quotes

'...a significant contribution...Mitchell's...rich examination of a wide range of variables involved in the contemplation and implementation of such moves deserves to be read by practitioners and students of conflict resolution alike. This book should become a required text in graduate courses on the techniques of successful conflict resolution.' - Paul D. Senese, American Political Science

'...worth reading for a mature and rational discussion of how conciliatory gestures can be initiated.' - Undala Alam, International Affairs

'...the most complete and comprehensive account of conciliation available, rescuing the concept from relative anonymity and providing a platform of researchers, policy makers, teachers, trainers and active peacemakers to learn from and build on. - Tom Woodhouse, Peace and Conflict: Journal of Peace Psychology

About the Author

Christopher Mitchell is Drucie French-Cumbie Professor of Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University.