Conflict resolution addresses underlying inequities and conflicts of values or interests and changes mutual perceptions, intentions, and behaviors. It creates the necessary conditions for peaceful relations on the basis of mutual respect and status equality. Because the basic value of identity outweighs that of peace for parties in conflict, peace-building efforts must find ways to express and reinforce the creative and positive aspects of each side's national identity. Both parties must come to believe that some core element of their unique selves will be better expressed through peaceful relations than through continued hostility. It also is necessary to develop an acceptable symbol system for expressing new concepts and solutions, both between parties and within each party. Third parties also must find nonviolent forms of empowerment, while maintaining the moral legitimacy of the parties, through a focus on economic, social, and cultural development. Finally, it is important to involve indigenous third parties in conflict resolution, both because of their increased commitment and engagement and their ability to communicate in culturally appropriate ways. Because terrorism shares some of the same goals as nongovernmental third-party conflict resolution, conflict resolution provides a real alternative to terrorism. 15 references.