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# Boundary critique and its implications for conflict prevention

## Details

**Authors** Midgley and Pinzon

**Year** 2011

**Publisher** The Journal of the Operational Research Society

**Discipline** Sociology

[Read it at the publisher](https://doi.org/10.1057/jors.2010.76) 
10.1057/jors.2010.76

## In authors' words

### Abstract

This paper reviews developments in the theory of boundary critique, which has been used in a number of OR projects to support conflict resolution. The authors argue that this theory (and associated models) is also useful for conflict prevention. It indicates the need to support people in discussing their differences before conflict arises. Potential conflicts can be reframed through dialogue focusing on values, and participative governance can institutionalise fair processes for making decisions in the absence of consensus. Some of the boundary critique models also support people in recognising and countering the systemic conditions that enable stereotyping, stigmatisation and the victimisation of minorities. The paper ends by presenting a new model that was originally developed to inform mediation practice, but also has implications for conflict prevention. This helps explain how different interpretations of a common concern arise, and suggests ways to improve mutual understanding between people and/or reframe the common concern in order to defuse a potential conflict.

### What they set out to do (purpose)

To explore the role of boundary critique and conflict, specifically in the context of conflict resolution and prevention.

### What they found (results)

When one is aware of the way they are assigning “otherness” to people, they may try to do it less, which leads to more productive conflict resolution, and, in general, a society that gets along easier.

## Commentary

### In short

Through the framing/reframing of ideas and boundaries, conflict can not only be resolved, but potentially prevented.

### In more detail

Midgley and Pinzon (2011) explored the role of boundary critique and conflict, specifically in the context of conflict resolution and prevention. Their work demonstrated a need for people to explore their differences, and be supported in that exploration. Their work highlights the need for Perspectives within boundary critique. This is because “different interpretations of a common concern arise…” between people and cause conflict. Through the framing/reframing of ideas and boundaries, conflict can not only

8 Previously, here were 5 medically driven gender identities male, female, hermaphrodite, female pseudohermaphrodites (individuals who have ovaries and some male genitalia but lack testes), and male pseudohermaphrodites (individuals who have testes and some female genitalia but lack ovaries), but now there are 64 accepted variations of gender.

be resolved, but potentially prevented. They write that, “in particular, if parties who frame a phenomenon differently can be supported in identifying their core and peripheral concerns, stigmatisation can be short-circuited through the promotion of better mutual understanding.” This paper demonstrates the function of identity-other Distinctions related to conflict and conflict resolution. In other words, Midgley and Pinzon suggest that when one is aware of the way they are assigning “otherness” to people, they may try to do it less, which leads to more productive conflict resolution, and, in general, a society that gets along easier.

**Patterns it shows** D

**How to cite this** Midgley and Pinzon (2011). Boundary critique and its implications for conflict prevention. The Journal of the Operational Research Society.