Lessons from brain science — and history's peacemakers — for resolving conflicts

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/11/04/ [login to see] /argument-us-israel-gaza-conflict-relationships
Deeply entrenched conflicts are dividing the world – and many people's social circles.

The violence in Israel and Gaza is triggering often overheated discussions among friends, family and strangers. This comes on top of other, increasingly sharp, rifts in the U.S., including fights over gun control, policing, abortion and other social and political issues.

Scientists who study the intersection of conflict and human behavior say it's essential to understand the biology behind some of these toxic interactions. Becoming aware of our ingrained impulses, they say, can help us learn to diffuse combustible situations.

And some rare, but noteworthy people who have mastered this lesson — including Nelson Mandela and U.S. Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm — have changed history.