Understanding Conflict: Key Definitions and Perspectives Notes

Conflict is a disagreement or clash between individuals, groups, or states over incompatible goals, values, or resources. It can occur at various levels, from personal disputes to international wars.

Structural causes are the deep-rooted, systemic factors within the social, economic, and political structures of society that create and sustain problems such as poverty, inequality, and conflict. They arise from the way institutions, policies, and power relations are organized. For example, unequal land ownership, discriminatory laws, and global trade imbalances are structural causes that perpetuate poverty and inequality.

Proximate causes are the immediate or direct factors that trigger a problem or event, as opposed to the deeper systemic roots. They are the short-term, surface-level causes that make an issue visible. For example, a drought causing food shortages, a government policy change sparking protests, or an outbreak of violence after an election can all be considered proximate causes.

Cultural and ideational factors are the beliefs, values, norms, traditions, and ideas that shape how societies and individuals think and behave. These factors influence political, social, and economic life by framing what people see as acceptable, legitimate, or desirable. For example, religious beliefs shaping laws on marriage, social norms influencing gender roles, or nationalist ideologies driving independence movements are all cultural and ideational factors.

Power asymmetry refers to a situation where power, resources, or influence are distributed unequally between actors, giving one side a significant advantage over the other. This imbalance can shape relationships, negotiations, and conflicts. For example, developed countries dominating trade rules over developing countries, employers holding more bargaining power than workers, or a majority group controlling political institutions over minorities are all cases of power asymmetry.

Soft power is the ability of a state or actor to influence others through attraction and persuasion rather than coercion or force. It comes from cultural appeal, political values, and diplomacy. For example, Hollywood films shaping global perceptions of the U.S., Japan’s global influence through anime and technology culture, or the European Union promoting human rights norms are expressions of soft power.

Conflict resolution is the process of addressing the underlying causes of conflict and finding mutually acceptable solutions. Common methods include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and peacekeeping.

Conflict transformation is a broader approach that seeks to change the relationships, structures, and dynamics that sustain conflict. Its focus is on long-term peacebuilding, reconciliation, and social justice.