The Way of Conflict: Elemental Wisdom for Resolving Disputes and Transcending Differences

The Way of Conflict teaches how to use ancient wisdom passed down through symbol, folk tale, and ancient classics such as The Art of War and the Bhagavad-Gita to confidently engage in any dispute and reach a balanced resolution. It is the first book to integrate the wealth of conflict skills found throughout the world's major religious and indigenous traditions with the latest scientific systems and conflict resolution theory. The Way of Conflict employs the cross-cultural metaphor of the four natural elements -- earth, water, fire, and air -- to identify our innate conflict personalities and forge an understandable path through the chaos of conflict. Using assessment tests, anecdotes from indigenous and religious traditions, and illustrative folk tales, Dr. Combs describes how to quickly assess a conflict and its participants and implement an appropriate resolution strategy.