Speaker: Stephen G. Post, Director, Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics State University of New York, Stony Brook
Presented by: CISCDR (Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Conflict and Dispute Resolution)
CISCDR Distinguished Interdisciplinary Lecture
Drawing on current scientific thinking about the human moral sentiments, this lecture examines new insights into the dynamics of revenge, forgiveness and reconciliation in evolved human nature. From evolutionary psychology and game theory to neuroscience and positive psychology, the last decade has witnessed a major effort to clarify these aspects of being human. A clearer portrait of human nature provides the basis for progress in the practical approaches we take to conflict resolution and peacemaking. Insights from the sciences will be interwoven with philosophical and religious thought to suggest new practical perspectives. The uneasy relationship between revenge and forgiveness in human cultures and traditions of belief will be assessed against this background. Those involved in the day-to-day practice of conflict resolution can expect to enrich their underlying perspectives on the problems and promises of human nature.
Forum