Techniques of Conflict Resolution Observed in the Semai...

Conflict is â€Å"the incompatible needs, differing demands, contradictory wishes, opposing beliefs or diverging interests which produce interpersonal antagonism and, at times, hostile encounters† (Bonta 1996: 405). Conflict resolution can be defined as the ability of individuals or groups of people to settle or avoid disputes through strategies that stop violence and bring people together in one peace (Bonta 1996: 406). A society in which interpersonal harmony is of a relatively high degree, with little or no physical violence occurring among both adults and children and strategies that work towards resolving conflicts and against violence (Bonta 1996: 405) is said to be a peaceful society. This paper will be working towards giving the reader†¦show more content†¦The kinship of the Semai is traced bilaterally (Robarchek, 1992: 192). This simply means that the assigning of kinship groups is done through both male and female lineages (Robarchek 1992: 194-195). Common marriages within bands, ambilocal residence and politically autonomous bands (Robarchek 1992: 193) are highly characteristic of the Semai society. On the hand, in the forested hills of western Tamil Nadu state in the southern part of India and in villages in he nearby plains resides the Paliyans. Based on the census conducted in India in 1981, the Paliyan society approximately consists of 7,000 people (Peaceful Societies n.d). Gathering of food and other products in the forest and the wage labour for plantations and farms in the nearby valleys (Peaceful Societies n.d) are the major sources of survival for the people of the Paliyan society. The population of the Paliyans also consists of nomadic forest dwellers of whom their economy partly depends on the exchange of forest produce like honey for other goods like tools and clothing without the use of money (Peaceful Societies n.d). The Paliyan society is very atomistic and anarchistic with decisions being made by each individual. Through their code of nonviolence, their desire for autonomy is emphasized (Peaceful Societies n.d). The Paliyans are able to maintain peace with their key value in respect. In which case, everyone regardless of maturity, relative seniority, gender and degree