Disarming identities

This book proposes that national or ethnic identity is an important and overlooked resource in conflict resolution. Using grounded theory to analyze data from interactive problem-solving workshops between Palestinians and Israelis a theory about the role of national identity in turning conflict into protracted conflict is developed. Drawing upon research from social psychology and international relations the study provides insight as to why the possibility of resolving conflict seems to trigger fears of annihilation in parties to the conflict. From this understanding it becomes clear why national identity needs to change, i.e. be disarmed, if conflict resolution is to be successful. What shape and function this change should have is explored from the understanding of the role of national identity in supporting conflict.