Ideological Conflict

We've always defined conflict fairly broadly from ideological conflict to troops on the ground. For quite some time we've talked about a focus on Palestine. Certainly no one can deny that Israel is conflict with Palestine and no one can deny that the U.S. is the largest supporter of Israel internationally - not only financially, but also in the United Nations where the United States is one of the very few countries that does not recognize Palestine as a state. ~ Jon Rubin

People do not only live on interests; they also live on beliefs, especially in very ideological areas. Unless you understand the ideological aspect of the region, you cannot understand what is happening. ~ Bashar al-Assad

When we hold different beliefs, it can lead to tension and conflict.

This clash of ideologies can have a significant impact on both individuals and society.

On an individual level, ideological differences can cause inner uncertainty. We experience confusion and stress as we try to reconcile conflicting belief systems. We feel a sense of isolation or alienation, as we struggle to find common ground with others. In extreme cases, ideological conflict can lead to moral injury, as individuals are forced to compromise their values or engage in actions that violate their conscience, especially in times of war. We see this happening in the Ukraine/Russia conflict among the peoples of those two historically connected societies, and in the endless inequalities, racism, discrimination, and policies among the Palestinian, Arab, Persian, and Israeli peoples, who share a historical linkage and ideological differences.

Societally, ideological conflicts have far-reaching consequences.

Polarization and fragmentation can erode social unity, making it difficult for us to work together and find common ground. As we see online via social media, this can lead to a rise in extremism and populism, as individuals seek simple answers to complex problems. Ideological conflict can stifle civil discourse, leading to a decline in constructive dialogue and an increase in adversarial rhetoric, especially among political leaders of nations prior to and during war.

We are living in an era of governments of all types responding to these tensions by implementing surveillance programs on their own citizens via social media, internet history, phone calls, reading text messages and implementing restrictive illiberal policies, further eroding civil liberties. An endless ideological conflict leads to collective trauma, leaving lasting scars on societies. Cultural divisions emerge, as people cling to their identities and resist change or compromise.

However, societies and individuals exhibit remarkable resilience.

By fostering critical thinking, empathy, and dialogue, we can bridge divides and work towards a more positive future.

Addressing collective trauma, promoting inclusive openness and discussion, and creating spaces for diverse cultural and political expression are important steps to these ideological differences and building a more resilient, open, and caring society.