Underlying causes of conflict
The way a society is organised can create both the root causes of conflict and the conditions in which
it’s likely to occur. Any society which is organised so that some people are treated unequally and unjustly
is likely to erupt into conflict, especially if its leaders don’t represent all the members of that society. If an
unequal and unjust society is reformed, then conflicts will be rare. (…)
Human beings have basic needs. Everyone needs to be recognised as an individual with a personal
identity; everyone needs to be able to feel safe. If these needs aren’t met, people protest, and protesting
can lead to rebellion and violence. Many people find their identity and security in their cultural group and
its particular point of view – so clashes between different cultural groups also lead to disputes that can
easily turn violent. If people learn to understand that differing cultures are not inevitably a threat to each
other, they will also learn how to manage their differences co-operatively and peacefully. (…)
One aspect of culture is particularly important: it can create language and behaviour that excludes
people, creating ‘us/them’, ‘insider/outsider’ situations and using language of discrimination, intolerance
and hate. If people create a society that doesn’t see ‘difference’ and ‘diversity’ as problems but as valuable
for social growth, many causes of conflict disappear.
A. According to the text, “If an unequal and unjust society is reformed, then conflicts will be rare.” In your opinion, what changes need to be made in
society so that conflicts can disappear?

b. According to the text, language and behavior can be used to reject and offend people. How can you welcome “difference” and “diversity” through words and actions?

c. Think of a society you know best. It can be your community, your neighborhood, your school. How is it organized? Can you see likely causes for conflict? What can be done to reduce the chances of conflict?
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