Empathy and self understanding as contributing factors in conflict transformation

This dissertation is an investigation into conflict transformation: Can empathy and self awareness contribute to and shape the approach to conflict in such a way that it is transformative for the people involved in the conflict? The Dissertation commences by defining the parameters of practical theology, together with an analysis of the unique methodologies of Ray Anderson and Don Browning, whose answers to conflicting questions function as the foundation for this Dissertation.; With this foundation, the concept of empathy is fundamentally explained through etymological word analysis and detailed exemplification of the concept in different scenarios. The implementation of a variety of case studies clarifies the meaning of empathic understanding in the Dissertation. In addition, there is an examination of the self from a philosophical, psychological and theological perspective. The relationship of the self to others as well as the multiplicity of selves within a person are among the topics addressed.; The second half of the Dissertation comprises a demonstration that empathy and self understanding can lead to inner authority. When these factors are present conflict can be addressed with inner authority, without aggression, humiliation, intimidation or oppression.; The hypothesis of empathic understanding for the self as well as for the enemy is tested in a mutually interactive process using interviews with survivors of the Holocaust. These interviews illustrate the claim of the hypothesis: if intentional and cognitive commitment to empathy and self understanding are present, a conflict in life can be transformative for the person experiencing it as well as for the person's attitude towards others, perpetrators and fellow victims alike.; The Dissertation concludes by giving a voice to a Gentile, Christian victim of the Nazi regime caught in the same dilemma as the Holocaust survivors with an examination of the level of empathy and self awareness of a highly conflicted Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Through an analysis of the evidence in his actions and words, the two factors, coupled with the claim that this theologian operated from an inner authority, aim at confirming and strengthening the hypothesis of this dissertation.