The purpose of this quarterly is to provide a forum for the discussion of alternate dispute resolution and restorative justice practices, as well as the social, cultural, psychological and political study of conflict. We hope to share ideas and spark debate on important topics that are all too often lacking in today’s ADR community. We hope the journal will contribute to the marketplace of ideas in mediation, arbitration, restorative justice, international relations, consensus building and peace activism in a way that is collegial, measured, and open to all.
This first Volume is eclectic in subject matter and international in scope. Robert M. Nelson of the Canadian Gowlings law firm has contributed his fascinating article on the use of alternate dispute resolution programs in post-Communist societies, an article that outlines difficulties in the establishment of ADR that will seem eerily familiar to practitioners of mediation and arbitration everywhere.
For the legal practitioner, Robert Dobbins has provided an incisive essay on best practices in drafting mediation and arbitration agreements -- the commercial litigation "pre-nup."
Kenneth Cloke has graciously allowed us to publish a chapter from his upcoming book, The Crossroads ofConflict - A Journey into the Heart of Dispute Resolution. The chapter published, Mediating Evil, War and Terrorism -- the Politics of Conflict, is an unflinching look at the evil we suffer and the evil we do. Mr. Cloke takes a fresh look at those matters that concern us all in a "post-September 11" world. Much to the reader's relief, he also offers practical solutions for re-conceptualizing and grappling with issues of evil, war and terrorism.
Troy Anthony Thomas provides us with a fascinating study of the conflict resolution style and substance of Jesus of Nazareth -- a much needed investigation given our nation's present religious polarization on nearly every critical issue from religious study and practice in the schools, to "intelligent design," gay marriage, and abortion. How would Jesus have resolved these conflicts in modern society?
Finally, your editor has included her own article on restorative justice practices in the criminal justice system. She reviews the ways in which former offenders can find peace and purpose in post-offender communities in much the same way that recovering alcoholics have pursued healthy and productive lives through the principles and practices of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Upcoming issues will feature other original articles, essays, book reviews, practice updates and transcripts of programs that are of interest to all those involved in conflict resolution, be they students, volunteers, working mediators, arbitrators, ombuds, psychologists, anthropologists, sociologists or artists.
We hope you find this and future issues sufficiently thought provoking and informative to "pen" your own contribution or dig out those manuscripts you haven't yet gotten around to submitting for publication.
