NCJ Number
125541
Journal
Negotiation Journal Volume: 6 Issue: 3 Dated: (July 1990) Pages: 229-238
Date Published
1990
Length
10 pages
Annotation
People classified as primitive by Western standards have been thought to be warlike; however, anthropological evidence suggests that these cultures' modes of dispute resolution may, in fact, be more peaceful than Western cultures.
Abstract
The observations recorded in this article point out that Bushmen in the Kalahari Desert take great care to avoid escalating and starting disputes. Witnesses and dispute resolvers are recruited in order to widen the scope of the dispute to include the entire community. Cultural rituals work to build unity and consensus regarding the resolution of the dispute. The Bushmen conduct discussions in which they defer to others and encourage other parties to present their viewpoint. Social discipline is enforced without courts and police, as evidenced by their ability to settle conflict peacefully.