Transform
tension and conflict
through dialogue
Our focus: transforming tension and conflict surrounding complex problems
Tension and conflict often surround complex problems. These problems differ from technical problems that can be resolved by experts or by following set methods. Read more about complex problems and the conflicts associated with them here.
Dialogues is a small, mobile, non-profit company. We work together with others to find collaborative ways to manage and resolve tensions that surround complex social problems.
Read more about us, our partners, our clients and our experience.
The thing about complex problems
Society is a complex living system. Many of the problems that arise within society are complex. They contain many parts, there are different perspectives on what the problem is, there are many stakeholders. These problems are dynamic. They affect other problems and are in turn affected by them. What makes them particularly difficult is that, because they are unpredictable, managing them requires flexibility and constant adaptation. There are no recipes you can follow.
Complex problems are best managed by involving all the stakeholders. These stakeholders have to collaborate. Collaboration, in today’s society, does not come naturally. Dealing with complex problems requires a particular kind of dialogue and facilitators or mediators with a particular mindset and skillset.
Tension, resistance and conflict
Complex problems usually contain tension. The tension can be mild, characterised by resistance or conflict. Most conflicts escalate over time. As people or groups feel themselves more and more marginalised, excluded, ignored, not taken seriously or railroaded, the temperature will rise.
Adding tension and conflict to the problems that are complex, makes them more difficult to deal with. Conflict is, however, only a symptom. It is an indicator that change is needed within a system or relationship. Conflict can be a catalyst for change and transformation if understood and properly managed.
The problem lies in the the way we think
Society has always been complex. No part of society is isolated. Moreover, society is inextricably interlinked with the natural world and with the economy – both of which are complex systems in themselves. The problem is that we think that we can control this complexity by dividing it up into parts. We think that if we can put things in boxes and take care of them one by one, that we will solve our social problems. We create a false sense of control. While we can fix engines and build bridges and skyscrapers using this logic, we cannot create a sustainable society this way. We need to change our fragmented thinking. Dialogue well designed and executed can help us to acquire a more complete understanding of social problems and avoid the destructive conflicts that lead to even more fragmentation.
Dialogues support
You want to use digital tools to enhance your dialogue and make it more effective.
How will you combine technology and face-to-face dialogue in an effective way?
You need a digital platform or digital tools that combine seamlessly with the face-to-face dialogue you need to build trust and deal with difficult issues.
Central thoughts in our approach
Tension, resistance and conflict
Dialogue
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