Culture and Conflict



Culture and Conflict

Introduction

Conflict and culture are linked inextricably. Conflicts are a common part of human lives; however, this does not only depend on the differences that lie between cultures. When any problems are faced within or between cultures, it is often due to the unsuccessful responses to solve the issues that are originated due to cultural differences. Whether this pertains to religious, social, political, racial or economic matter dissimilarity is commonly a source of misunderstanding and fear. Conflicts due to culture can include discrimination, segregation and exclusion. Conflict arise when a person, no matter what the root of the conflict, does not handle the differences which either diminish or provokes a situation.

Comparison of Theories

Bernard Mayer's (2013) described a theory which discussed many variables that can act as a root of conflicts. An important factor discussed in his theory was the differences that originate due to cultural difference within societies. Mayer`s theory links the cultural attributes and values of an individual with different conflicts.

Bernard Mayer's further said that culture is a medium on which conflicts plays out. A model of conflicts was proposed which included many of the factors which promote conflicts within societies; however, cultural values marked as the most important between them. Kevin Avruch (2004) in his book titled Culture and conflict Resolution have offered a brief but important theory of conflicts. His book concerns mostly with the manners and behaviors in which culture and values have been perceived, defined or deemed irrelevant or relevant by practitioners and students of international relations and conflict resolutions. Avruch wrote that conflict is often observed as a competition over limited status or power and resources. He also stated that most conflicts in cross cultures originate due to the difference in beliefs or principles.

Pat Chew (2001) in his book has discussed a cultural lens which percepts the conflict theories. He proposed that differences of cultures and conflicts arising are a stereotype among many races. Cultural differences are viewed usually through such stereotyping. Stereotyping within communities often acts as a root when situations of conflict occur. Comparatively, MAYER`S theory provides the similarity with Chew and Avruch theories that international relations and conflicts are due to the thrust of power, dominating the low powered cultures. Mayer`s theory has marked the requirement of power and resources as an important root for many conflicts that arises within communities, while the other two theories suggests that culturally difference and unsuccessful communication generates such conflicts.

Literature Review

Despite many culture and conflict theorist are working on the intercultural context on conflicts, much has not been published and worked in a paper. For this reason, our concept of how cultural has impacted the conflicts between people is still undeveloped. Still theories proposed in this regard provide some information most critically how cultural settings can help to decrease conflicts. Some theories proposed that culture can affect behavior of a person without even in being in his knowledge. Most of the theories concerning with cultures have focused on ...