If development work is to be effective, the adoption of this new paradigm is essential. The existing model, the politics-power paradigm, offers an institutionally based view of the world and focuses on politics as the seat of power. In this model, power is equated with control. Interaction thus becomes a strategic chess game, where each side attempts to outmaneuver the other, rather that a cooperative effort to solve problems and address issues. A new paradigm will evoke new approaches to development work and conflict prevention.
Citizens are political actors.
Relationships are the fundamental concept guiding the new paradigm. Crucial to the new paradigm are processes of interaction. Relationships provide unique insight into how people interact and, when dissected, can be used as an operational tool to analyze conflicts. Interactions are multi-level processes that change over time. Fundamental to the successful evolution from adversarial to non-adversarial group interactions is indigenous ownership of the process.