Elusive Peace: How Modern Diplomatic Strategies Could Better Resolve World Conflicts
"It is increasingly clear that traditional military and diplomatic methods for resolving global conflicts cannot work. InElusive Peace, Douglas Noll not only shows us why, with explanations ranging from neuropsychology to philosophy and political analysis, he points us to morally meaningful solutions. This isa compelling, exciting, eye-opening readthat will make you think, and think again." --Kenneth Cloke, president of Mediators Beyond Borders, author ofConflict Revolution: Mediating Evil, War, Injustice, and Terrorism."If you are a Mediator or Peace Builder, this is one book to keep by your side and on your desk at all times. Use it to give yourself a reality check when you're in danger of slipping into comfortable sentimentality or irrational exuberance over the essential goodness, intelligence, or rationality of human beings."Douglas Noll is no peacenik who stumbled his way into peace building after drinking the purple Kool-Aid. He is above all a realist. His book isa clear exposition of how sustainable peace can only be achieved through unsentimental critical thinking, a sophisticated understanding of human society and behavior, and expert facilitation of the conflict resolution process." --Ashok Panikkar, founder and executive director of Meta-Culture Consulting, South Asia's first professional conflict resolution and dialogue center"Douglas Nollartfully provides a cogent and compelling casefor recognizing the 'international diplomatic mediator' as a distinct specialization within the field of mediation. While acknowledging the fact that most heads of state and career diplomats may be highly skilled in their fields, Noll laments that they, as a class, lack the most rudimentary skills to successfully effect conflict resolution on the world stage. His thoughtful book suggests instead that the stakes involved in many world conflicts are so high that they should rather be placed in the capable hands of properly equipped, experienced, professional mediators." --Neil Carmichael, vice president of Education & Training, American Arbitration Association University