Author Description

Under what conditions is it possible for people with different outlooks on life and different ethnic backgrounds to live together in peace In the Netherlands, as in other European countries, this question has been at the centre of public debate for some time and recently has focused in particular on religious diversity. There are several positions, but they all see differences between groups as an essential problem. In this book, the authors take a different approach. The term conflict literally means clashing together', from the Latin confligere, to strike together. Wherever people come together, their interests and beliefs are sure to clash. And, conversely, clashes only occur when there is something shared to quarrel about. Whether we like it or not, living with each other means clashing with each other.Five Dutch researchers share their exploration of the paradoxical situation that we cannot survive without the other, because we only really learn about ourselves when we come into contact with others. At the same time it is problematic to live with the other since our lives clash with the life of the other and we try to shield ourselves and draw boundaries. How to live in difference and not be indifferent to the other That's the question.