Running head: ARTICLE REVIEW 2 1
ARTICLE REVIEW 2
Allison Anderson-Dupuis
Article 10
Overview of the Problem Area
Reconciliation, as being one of the close connected terms to forgiveness, is a complicated
process. John Paul Lederach (2001) asserts that it is very easy to assume that reconciliation, both
among individuals and groups, is easily achieved, but this is not the case. Instead, reconciliation
requires many practices and disciplines in order to be completed successfully with long lasting
results. Lederach (2001) identifies that while reconciliation has been thought to have been in
practice to centuries or even millennia, the proper procedures and best practices for
reconciliation are still in their infancy.
Theories and Conclusions Reached by the Author
Lederach (2001) introduces what he calls his qualities of practice that ultimately support
and usher along the reconciliation process. These five qualities are meant to work closely with
the reconciliation journey, and offer those involved a deeper look into character versus technique
within each conflict. The first quality described by Lederach (2001) is one of being relationship-
centric when working through the reconciliation process. Essentially by focusing more on the
invisible qualities of a conflict, to include perceptions and perspectives, those involved in the
conflict can gain a clearer understanding of the true source of the conflict, helping them to work
toward reconciliation more easily.
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The second quality is the accompaniment a person seeks when they are traveling through
a reconciliation journey. Lederach (2001) asserts that having a third-party directly involved is not
helpful. The third and fourth qualities are closely related as humility and restoring trust are
woven. Finally, by intertwining the fifth quality of wandering, it can be seen that Lederach’s
(2001) overall assertion is that reconciliation is a journey, and not something that can be
accomplished overnight. Creating a close connection built on gradual, authentic trust will
ultimately be the only path to true reconciliation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
While Lederach (2001) makes some very good points about reconciliation, to include the
final assertion that reconciliation is a long process that should not be rushed, as it would then
loose its authenticity, he fails to elaborate on how each of his qualities can be applied to
resistance. For instance, in a group setting, if one nation does not have any interest in reconciling
with another nation over war crimes, how will connecting interpersonally and wandering on the
journey help is this case? “If anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the
dust from your feet when you leave” (Matthew 10:14, English Standard Version).
Contribution to Conflict Management
Overall, the article contributes to conflict management by introducing the many facets of
reconciliation. By viewing reconciliation as a long journey that involves many considerations, it
is much easier to understand how conflict management is also not a quick process. Giving
relationships time to build trust, learn about the other party, and find support are all essential to
completing reconciliation, thus successfully managing relationships and conflict within them.
