Ideology and Conflict

Ideologies are the core values, beliefs of a groupIdeologies are strongly tied to people’s sense of self

Ideologies are in constant flux

values are often in tension

ideologies are constantly being interpreted in the face of changing events

ideologies are more like guiding strategies than sets of unchanging principles

Causes of Ideological Conflict

The perception that one’s core value set/ideology is being challenged or called into question

The belief that someone else’s attempt to adapt an ideology to changing circumstances is a threat to the ideology itself

Ideological and Intractable Conflict

Ideological conflicts often become intractable conflicts

resistant to being resolved

original issues are often lost sight of

high defensiveness

little open communication

Stages of Intractable Conflict

Threat

to core sense of self

belief that coexistence may not be possible

Distortion

incoming information is distorted to maintain core identity

Rigidification

perceive other as less than oneself to maintain distance and dehumanize

Collusion

both sides come to need the conflict to maintain their identities

How Can You Handle Ideological Conflict?

Seek clarity and agreement on the terms for discussing ideological differences

do people agree on the same evidence and information?

Do people agree to what is authoritative?

   Establish ways that a trusting relationship can exist despite ideological differences

lrecognize ways that coexistence is possible

llearn how to control fear of exploitation and loss of self in presence of differences