PACIFISM FROM A SOCIOLOGICAL POINT OF VIEW

In: The journal of conflict resolution: journal of the Peace Science Society (International), Band 3, Heft 1, S. 67-84

Abstract

A discussion of pacifism 'to clarify some theoretical problems in sociol as well as in pacifist ideologies & to point out some hyp's_that might not only be validated theoretically or ideologically but also possibly be tested empirically.' Conflict is defined as value disagreement, which must be distinguished from cognitive disagreement. There is a distinction between instrumental & expressive behavior in conflict situations. The former has the function of contributing to conflict resolution, while the latter serves the function of tension release from the latent intensity. The problem becomes: 'how can the expressive needs be taken care of in a conflict with minimal instrumental costs?' The following expressive equivalents of violence are seen: (1) aggression may be directed against more abstract entities, eg, soc structures, rather than against the individual antagonist, (2) 'some expressive outlet will be gained from the mere feeling of offering resistance of putting up a fight,' & (3) 'it may be that the kind of non-violent behavior indicated is not only compatible with, but directly an expression of, some deeper, latent urges that we do not know.' A structural-functional analysis of conflict-relevant behavior is undertaken. The following 3 techniques for the prevention of manifest conflicts are discussed: creation of a network of primary relations between groups, creation of mutual interdependencies, & creation of authority in a supersystem. Gandhi's methods of preventing the aggravation of conflicts are noted: sticking to the initial aim, showing confidence in the adversary, understanding the opponent's point of view, & fighting the antagonism, not the antagonist. 5 aspects of non-violent actions instrumental to accepted solutions are considered: conflict resolution as soc control, systematic norm infraction, emptying of statuses, suffering, & conflict behavior as anticipatory conflict resolution. Some res topics relevant to the nrohlems discussed are suneested. I. Taviss.