Abstract of "Ritual and Symbol in Peacebuilding" by Schirch, L.

Publisher Abstract

The author suggests that peacebuilding should be thought of as a stage that must be constructed so as to engage people's emotions and senses and capture their imagination and interest. In addition to direct and linear modes of peacebuilding and conflict transformation (such as principled negotiation), practitioners need to rely more on ritual. Ritual has three specific characteristics. First, it occurs in a unique social space, set apart from everyday life. Second, communication operates through symbols and emotions rather than relying primarily on words or rational thought. In ritual, individuals learn by doing and utilize nonverbal communication. Third, ritual confirms and transforms people's worldviews, identities, and relationships with others. Schirch provides a variety of stories and examples that demonstrate how ritual can be used to symbolically communicate a commitment to nonviolence, to heal trauma, and to transform relationships. Creating and performing rituals help people in conflict to relate to one another and engage with oppressive social structures that need to be changed. By offering tools that stimulate the mind, body, and senses, ritual enables parties to get beyond hatred and violence.