High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out

High conflict is an invisible hand of our time that distills into a good-versus-evil kind of feud, causing the brain to behave differently and making us feel increasingly certain of our own superiority. This book investigates how good people get captured by high conflict and how they break free, exploring how individuals can transform high conflict into good conflict that makes them better people.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

When we find ourselves perplexed by the irrationality of the "other side" in our politics, workplaces, or personal lives, it's because we fail to recognize the extent to which the conflict itself has taken over. This phenomenon is known as "high conflict," and it operates as an unseen force of our time, distinct from the beneficial friction of healthy conflict. Healthy conflict serves as a catalyst for personal growth, pushing us to become better individuals.

High conflict arises when disagreements escalate into a polarized battle between "us" and "them." In this state, our brains undergo distinct changes, leading us to perceive our own superiority with increasing conviction. Consequently, our attempts to resolve the conflict often exacerbate it, resulting in harm to the very values we hold dear. This downward spiral can even lead us to mimic the behavior of our adversaries, causing harm to those we care about.

In her captivating book, "The High Conflict," New York Times bestselling author and award-winning journalist Amanda Ripley delves into the captivating phenomenon of how good people become ensnared in high conflict and how they can break free. The book unfolds through a series of compelling narratives, each exploring different aspects of this complex issue.

Our journey begins in California, where a renowned conflict expert finds himself entangled in a political feud. As he grapples with the escalating tensions, he realizes that the story he had told himself about the conflict was not entirely accurate. This realization sets him on a path of self-reflection and exploration.

Next, we meet a Chicago gang leader who has dedicated his life to a relentless vendetta. However, years later, he confronts the truth about the conflict, realizing that it had been shaped by his own biases and misconceptions. This realization leads him to question the validity of his beliefs and seek a deeper understanding of the other side.

Our journey continues to Colombia, where Ripley investigates whether it is possible to nudge thousands of people out of high conflict at a large scale. Through her research and interactions with local communities, she discovers that even in the most challenging circumstances, there are opportunities for reconciliation and healing.

Finally, we return to America, where Ripley explores the transformative power of cross-cultural dialogue. She pairs liberal Manhattan Jews with conservative Michigan corrections officers, who choose to stay in each other's homes to better understand and appreciate their differing perspectives. Despite their ongoing disagreements, these individuals forge deep connections and learn to appreciate the complexity of the human experience.

Through these diverse narratives, "The High Conflict" sheds light on the forces that drive people into high conflict and offers valuable insights into how individuals and communities can navigate this challenging terrain. Ripley's writing is accessible, compelling, and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of conflict and the potential for positive change.

Weight: 293g
Dimension: 213 x 140 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781982128579