Thursday, July 13, 2006

Why Conflict?

Alien and Ignoramus

“What ails you, Ignoramus?”

“Al,why conflict? Why not harmony?”

“Conflict is bound to occur. When intelligent people discuss something there is bound to be disagreement. You must have seen disagreement amongst colleagues, friends, groups, nations and even members of a family.”

“But disagreement should not spiral into such a deep divide that psyches are damaged, people are destroyed.”

“Agreed. Let us try and find why there is such deep divisive conflict on Earth.

In most Earth cultures you are taught to pursue self interest. When you try to do that at the expense of others, naturally there is conflict.

You have different social, economic, cultural backgrounds and have very little understanding of each other. This lack of understanding, mistrust and suspicion leads to conflict.

You seem to have this need to revere, emulate people above you and look down upon those below you. Despite all the talk about equality and democracy, you are very fond of hierarchies. Those at the bottom of hierarchies really have a tough time. There is repressed resentment that causes conflict.

You are taught that your own group, race, caste, class, country, culture, ideology, religion are the best and rest are inferior. ‘Love your group and hate others’ maxim is bound to promote conflict.

Earth resources are limited and there are so many people. This scarcity may be real or artificially created. Insecurity and fears about the future also cause conflict.”

“But conflicts can be resolved. They should be resolved before they can cause severe injury, death and destruction.”

“Yes Ignoramus but it is not easy. Think how this can be done. You know Earth people better than I do.”