The Non-Linearity of Peace Processes

Reviews / Votes

In the book, [...] authors from varied disciplines apply theoretical and practitioners' views to discuss the strength and weaknesses of incorporating systemic thinking into peacebuilding processes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL ON WORLD PEACE 3/2013
Während der erste Teil grundsätzliche theoretische Überlegungen hinsichtlich der Kompatibilität von systemtheoretischem Denken und Friedens- und Konfliktforschung enthält, geht es im zweiten Teil um die praktische Dimension des Problemfeldes. Konkret bedeutet diese Zweiteilung, dass im ersten Teil unterschiedliche theoretische Konzepte aus der soziologischen und der politikwissenschaftlichen Theoriebildung ebenso diskutiert werden wie konstruktivistische bzw. erkenntnistheoretische Ansätze. [...] Ein solcher Aufbau birgt grundsätzlich die Gefahr, dass sich Theoriebildung und Empirie voneinander entfernen, was für diesen Band erfreulicherweise jedoch nicht zutrifft.
pw-portal.de, 16.08.2012
The book, based on a project at the Berghof Foundation, outlines many interesting facets of constructivist theory around systemic thinking, complexity theory and action-research in the context of international conflict transformation work. It is a powerful confirmation [...] of the value of qualitative approaches to better understand conflict and peace processes, aiming for more reflexivity when it comes to analyse 'our' role in peace negotiations and peacebuilding.
aidnography.blogspot.com, 24.05.2012
This book stores up immense usefulness. First, it is written by inter-disciplinary team of scholars enriched by theory and experience of many non-linear conflict contexts. Second, it seeks to bridge the gap between rational, spiritual, emotional and scientific knowledge and builds cycles of peace ranging from early warning, planning, intervention, monitoring and evaluation of peace process. Third, multiple perspectives including [a] cultural one weaved into a systemic whole have made the book amply broad to capture multi-track mediation, intervention and peace building activities. As the book is a pioneer effort integrating systemic thinking into peace building theory and practice, it is useful to political leaders, policy makers, conflict experts, teachers and students in broadening their understanding about peaceful transformation of complex conflicts into stable peace.
Reporter Weekly November 2011