Critical Systematic Inquiry in Conflict Analysis and Resolution: An Essential Bridge Between Theory and Practice

Implicit in this chapter is the asusmptio of a fundamental "two culture problem" (or even conflict) between (a) academics or theorists in peace and conflict studies and (b) practitioners of conflict resolution and peacebuilding, including governmental policymakers as well as governmental  and non-governmental interveners in complex conflict situations.

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The purpose of this chapter is to contribute to managing at least part of this problem, by addressing research as the "essential bridge" between conflict/conflict resolution theory and conflict resolution practice/policymaking.  The underlying assumption is that research allows conflict, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding analysts to apply theory to practice/policy and, in turn, for practitioners and policymakers to feed the results of practice back to theory for reinforcement, refinement, or refutation and replacement in part or in whole.

This major new handbook comprises cutting-edge essays from leading scholars in the field of conflict analysis and resolution (CAR). The volume provides a comprehensive overview of the core concepts, theories, approaches, processes, and intervention designs in the field. The central theme is the value of multidisciplinary approaches to the analysis and resolution of conflicts. This consists of moving from the study of analytical approaches to understanding the deep-rooted causes of conflict, to third-party intervention approaches to preventing or ending violence, and to resolving and transforming conflict.