Dynamical-systems research on intractable conflict.

Beginning in September, 2006, Dr. Coleman began leading an international team of scholar-practitioners, with funding from the James S. McDonnell Foundation, to develop a theory of enduring conflicts from the perspective of complex systems. The project applies the principles and methods of dynamical systems theory to what is arguably the most complex and dynamic of all social phenomena: protracted social conflict. Such conflicts are quite common and undermine the security and well being of societies worldwide. The project is being conducted by a multidisciplinary research team consisting of 1) a specialist in the study of intractable conflict (Peter T. Coleman); 2) two social psychologists with expertise in the application of dynamical systems to cognitive, interpersonal, group, and societal phenomena (Andrzej Nowak and Robin Vallacher); 3) a physicist with expertise in formal descriptions and the modeling of system dynamics (Larry Liebovitch); and 4) a social anthropologist (and practitioner) who specializes in international conflict and genocide prevention (Andrea Bartoli). The grant was awarded to test, validate, and revise a theoretical framework of dynamical system theory from the results of case studies, laboratory experiments, and computer simulations.
      To date this project has resulted in 6 publications, 8 pending publications, and 15 conference presentations. In addition, we are currently conducting an extensive program of research assessing the dynamics of constructive and destructive processes (cognitive, affective, and behavioral attractor dynamics) in moral conflicts. This work will culminate in one dissertation and several articles. We are also currently editing a special issue of Peace and Conflict: The Journal of Peace Psychology, showcasing dynamical-systems theory applications to conflict research. We are also working with a dynamical progressive-scenario methodology (Bui-Wrzosinska, 2005) to explore splitting parameters that lead to more destructive versus constructive dynamics in conflicts of a more intractable nature.