Mediating Dangerously

In this inspiring new vision of the art of conflict resolution, Kenneth Cloke shows new and accomplished mediators how to examine the inner processes and hidden personal recesses that limit their effectiveness, as well as the outside systems and structures that restrict their capacity to act on what they have learned. Cloke explores the dark places--the edges, boundaries, and possibilities of mediation. He reveals how to approach dangerous conflicts--domestic violence, war, slavery, fascism, insanity, and oppression--to uncover hidden choices and transformational opportunities that help people and organizations develop, grow, and learn more about themselves. Offering a wealth of fresh possibilities, Mediating Dangerously identifies potential openings, creative techniques, and new and unusual approaches to dispute resolution. The book includes specific guidelines, questions to ask, sample dialogues, checklists, and diagrams to help readers immediately apply new techniques in their current practice.

The inevitable stress and pain of conflict can lure mediation professionals into taking the easy route to a quick compromise. But, claims Cloke, the role of mediators is not simply to settle conflicts or fashion agreements, but to create choices. This means going further, taking risks, opening wounds, and exploring dangerous terrain to locate the center of what isn't working. It requires great courage, honesty, and self-knowledge to open a Pandora's box of fear, resistance, dishonesty, revenge, oppression, and all the defenses and rationalizations that keep individuals, organizations, and societies locked in conflict.

Mediating Dangerously shows conflict resolution professionals how to advance beyond the traditional steps, procedures, and techniques of mediation to unveil its invisible heart and soul and to reveal the subtle and sensitive engine that drives the process of personal and organizational transformation. This book is a major new contribution to the literature of conflict resolution that will inspire and educate professionals in the field for years to come.