Tolerance and Solidarity

In: Peace and conflict: journal of peace psychology ; the journal of the Society for the Study of Peace, Conflict, and Violence, Peace Psychology Division of the American Psychological Association, Band 7, Heft 2, S. 131-142

Abstract

Tolerance & solidarity are recognized as key elements in the United Nations Culture of Peace Declaration. The contributions of psychology to our understanding of the causes of intolerance & the promotion of both tolerance & solidarity are discussed by drawing on insights from the Costa Rica symposium & connecting more widely with the scholarly literature in social & peace psychology. Guided by theory & research, we examine the sources of intolerance & exclusion, emphasizing not only small group processes but structural, societal-level changes. We cite provocative evidence indicating that democratization & globalization leave in their wake new divisions & intolerance. While noting the value of intergroup contact in the context of interdependent goals, we underscore the limits of traditional social psychological approaches when addressing complex social phenomena. We emphasize the critical role peace psychologists can play in exposing ideologies of oppression, & promoting social designs & practices that support tolerance & solidarity, at micro & macro levels, within the context of a collaborative, multidisciplinary framework. 52 References. Adapted from the source document.