This book brings together a unique combination of experts in the area of conflict resolution and focuses on the role forgiveness can play in the process. It deals with the theology, public policy, psychological and social theory, and social policy implementation of forgiveness.

The first section of the book explores how ideas like “forgiveness” and “reconciliation” are moving out from the seminary and academy into the world of public policy, and how these terms have been used and defined in the past. One of the contributors, Miroslav Volf, speaks to the Christian contribution of a more peaceful environment. The second section looks at forgiveness and public policy. One of the chapters, by Donald W. Shriver, Jr., addresses forgiveness in a secular political forum.

The third section of the book draws us to a more particular analysis of the relationship between forgiveness and reconciliation from voices in the academic and theological community. John Paul Lederach presents five qualities of practice in support of the reconciliation process. John Dawson gives hope for peace-making in a new century. The final section highlights the work of practitioners currently working with religion, public policy, and conflict transformation, particularly in areas such as Ireland and Africa. This book will be an essential resource for libraries, scholars, conflict negotiators, and all people who hope to understand the role of forgiveness in the peace process.

Contributors include: Desmond M. Tutu, Rodney L. Petersen, Miroslav Volf, Stanley S. Harakas, Raymond G. Helmick, S.J., Joseph V. Montville, Douglas M. Johnston, Donna Hicks, Donald W. Shriver, Jr., Everett L. Worthington, Jr., John Paul Lederach, Ervin Staub, Laurie Anne Pearlman, John Dawson, Audrey R. Chapman, Olga Botcharova, Anthony da Silva, S.J., Geraldine Smyth, O.P., Andrea Bartoli, Ofelia Ortega, and George F.R. Ellis.

Highlights

Essays by twenty-one contributors from the field of conflict resolution

Essential information on the effectiveness of forgiveness in international affairs

Valuable appendix of conflict resolution and forgiveness-related organizations

About the Author:

Rodney L. Petersen is executive director of the Boston Theological Institute, and teaches in the areas of history and ethics, currently focusing on issues of religion and violence. He is the author or editor of numerous articles and books including Consumption, Population, and Sustainability and Earth at Risk.

Raymond G. Helmick, S.J. teaches conflict resolution in the department of theology at Boston College. He has mediated in a number of conflicts in the Middle East, and is on the executive board of the U.S. Interreligious Committee for Peace in the Middle East and Senior Associate of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He is the author of numerous monographs and articles.