Resolving conflict through shared origins, shared values, and healing historical memory

There is a good deal of ignorance about the world's dominant monotheistic religions, i.e., Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.  There are also some who seek to take advantage of this ignorance to stir up conflict and strife for selfish gain.  Today's guest believes that educating people on the shared origins and values of their religions leads them to work more effectively together towards peace.  He has seen the ease and enthusiasm with which Muslims, Christians, and Jews can work together when ignorance is removed, and he's working to apply these concepts to conflicts throughout our country and world.  Joseph Montville is a Director at the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University.  He has had a long and distinguished career including serving 23 years as a diplomat with posts in the Middle East and North Africa; faculty appointments at the Harvard and University of Virginia Medical Schools; and serving as Chief of the State Department's Near East Division, and the Director of its Office of Global Issues. 

A call to provide a safe environment where people can listen to each other and learn.

A vision for a 24x7 center for conflict dialogue and healing in Virginia.

The legacy of the Civil War on race relations in the U.S.

Full interview. 

For more information:  http://scar.gmu.edu/