Central to a transformational approach to conflict is the idea that conflicts must be viewed as embedded within broader relational patterns, and social and discursive structures-and must be addressed as such. This implies the need for systemic change at generative levels, in order to create genuine transformation at the level of particular conflicts. Central, also, to this book is the idea that the origins of transformation can be momentary, or situational, small-scale or micro-level, as well as bigger and more systemic or macro-level. Micro-level changes involve shifts and meaningful changes in communication and related patterns that are created in communication between people. Such transformative changes can radiate out into more systemic levels, and systemic transformative changes can radiate inwards to more micro- levels. This book engages this transformative framework. Within this framework, this book pulls together current work that epitomizes, and highlights, the contribution of communication scholarship, and communication centered approaches to conflict transformation, in local/community, regional, environmental and global conflicts in various parts of the world. The resulting volume presents an engaging mix of scholarly chapters, think pieces, and experiences from the field of practice. The book embraces a wide variety of theoretical and methodological approaches, as well as transformative techniques and processes, including: narrative, dialogic, critical, cultural, linguistic, conversation analytic, discourse analytic, and rhetorical. This book makes a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue across and between disciplines and people on how to transform conflicts creatively, sustainably, and ethically.

This intercultural communication text reader brings together the many dimensions of ethnic and cultural identity and shows how they are communicated in everyday life. Introducing and applying key concepts, theories, and approaches_from empirical to ethnographic_a wide variety of essays look at the experiences of African Americans, Asians, Asian Americans, Latino/as, and Native Americans, as well as many cultural groups. The authors also explore issues such as gender, race, class, spirituality, alternative lifestyles, and inter- and intra-ethnic identity. Sites of analysis range from movies and photo albums to beauty salons and Deadhead concerts.

In this InterAct, Benjamin Broome examines the communication style and cultural patterns in contemporary Greece, known to its residents as Ellada. He deciphers the complexity of Greek culture, providing the reader with an accurate guide for navigating the unknown terrain of its social landscape. Enriched with numerous examples from the author's travels and sojourns in the country, Exploring the Greek Mosaic is highly readable, yet it presents as in-depth treatment of many key subjects, including the Greek view of history; the importance of village, family and religion; the role of conversation and conflict in interpersonal relations; and the characteristics of the work environment. Particular attention is given to similarities and differences in perception between Greeks and Americans, and sound advice is presented to those attempting to enter the Greek social world. Managers, diplomats, students and serious travelers will find this insightful examination of Greek culture an especially useful guide to interaction with Greeks, and those teaching intercultural relations will appreciate its refreshing approach to cultural analysis.