Book Review: The Conflict Paradox: Seven Dilemmas at the Core of Disputes by Bernie Mayer

Authors

Kelly Browe Olson, University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of LawFollow

Publication Date

2016

Abstract

Bernie Mayer's latest book is an excellent journey into seven key dilemmas in conflict. Mayer devotes a chapter to each of the following dilemmas: Competition and Cooperation, Optimism and Realism, Avoidance and Engagement, Principle and Compromise, Emotions and Logic, Impartiality and Advocacy, and Autonomy and Community. In this review, I suggest that the book is a thorough guide through seemingly diverse and opposing conflict theories. I go through each chapter and detail how Mayer sees these concepts as interwoven instead of oppositional. He walks his readers through what have been thought of as distinctive, even opposing, approaches, theories, and concepts of conflict. The review uses points and quotes from all seven dilemmas to show the depth of Mayer's analysis and the numerous benefits to theorists and practitioners of reading and rereading his book

Document Type

Book Review

Recommended Citation

Kelly B. Olson, Book Review, 54 Fam. Ct. Rev. 530 (July 2016) (reviewing Bernie Mayer, The Conflict Paradox: Seven Dilemmas at the Core of Disputes (2015)).