Conflict

As U.S. society has grown more contentious and hostile to difference, it’s become common for some people to be increasingly wary of any conflict itself as somehow negative and destructive.  In turn, people may avoid any situation or person or event where any chance of “conflict” is present.

From another perspective, conflict is not only normal and natural - but an essential part of learning and growth.  From this perspective, rather than avoiding socio-political conflict, we should turn towards it and welcome it as a valuable feature of a democratic society.  

 

QUESTIONS TO PLAY WITH:

-Do you usually see conflict as a positive or negative thing?  

-If that depends, what does it depend on?  What makes a productive vs. a destructive conflict in your view?