Non-dichotomous approaches to conflict resolution: Participatory performative brainstorm

How to go beyond a dichotomy? Can non-dichotomous conflicts exist, or does a conflict resolve when the dichotomy itself breaks down?
In and out-group identities are used to explain growing tensions within societies. They are based on dichotomies that can result from something as minor as different pronunciation (Fitzduff, 2021).
The objective of this session is to encourage the participants to reflect on how dichotomous definitions serve multiple purposes: they can help in acknowledging vulnerable social groups but may also lead to maintaining harmful social structures. The existing dichotomies presented by the participants are addressed through guided interaction. Our session follows researcher Emily Butler’s (2022) notion that dysfunctional social dynamics could be rewired by infusing diverse information to the thinking of homogenous groups.
Rather than being a traditional academic presentation, this session uses participatory performative strategies to enable multiple voices and approaches expressed by presenters and audience equally. The presentation will combine light movement and vocalization in response to constructed provocations.