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Conflict Resolution On Tanna, Vanuatu

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 May 2015

Robert J. Gregory  and
Janet E. Gregory
Robert J. Gregory*
Affiliation:
Massey University, New Zealand/Aotearoa
Janet E. Gregory
Affiliation:
Massey University, New Zealand/Aotearoa
*
School of Psychology, Palmerston North, New Zealand. Email: R.J.Gregory@massey.ac.nz
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Abstract

Both locally and globally, human populations appear to be engaged in almost constant conflict in this new 21st century, offering ample opportunities for those who would help solve problems. In one remote part of the planet, Tanna in Vanuatu, conflict resolution is a near constant activity raised to an elegant art form. Big men and village orators deal with complex issues in a public forum frequently. Understanding the principles and the methods of resolving differences in another culture depends upon an in-depth knowledge of their historical and contextual background. In addition, observation of the spatial and temporal dimensions of actual meetings to resolve disputes provided the authors with a fascinating insight into the structure and dynamics of the inter-village systems. This paper initially examines selected aspects and themes of Tannese culture, including such concepts or bodies of knowledge as balance, reciprocity, politics, ethics, resource availability, kinship, genealogy and the practicalities of everyday living. Then, through presentation of several instances of conflict resolution, some of the non-western, alternative styles of conflict resolution noted, including for example, rapid resolution of differences, maintenance of balance and reciprocity, collective involvement, no imprisonment, and use of healing and ceremony, are discussed. These methods may have application to other cultures and peoples who are trying to resolve disputes within their own frameworks for living.

Type
Qualitative Research/Case Studies
Information
South Pacific Journal of Psychology , Volume 14 , 2003 , pp. 60 - 68
Copyright
Copyright © University of Papua New Guinea and Massey University, New Zealand/Aotearoa 2003

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