To Make the Earth Whole studies the art of citizen diplomacy_a process that can address clashes of religion and culture across regional lines even when traditional negotiations between governments can fail. While faith and regional differences have been sources of division around the world in recent decades, millions of citizens are also creating bonds of friendship and collaboration that are forming the basis of a global community. Drawing on the experiences gleaned from years practicing citizen diplomacy in some of the world's most politically charged climates, scholar-practitioner of conflict resolution and rabbi Marc Gopin describes his work in Syria as a central case study of the book. The author outlines the strategic basis for creating community across lines of enmity, the social network theory to explain how this happens, and the long term vision required for a progressive but inclusive global community that respects religious communities even as it limits their coercive power over others. This powerful and practical book outlines an incremental and evolutionary strategy of positive change that stands a strong chance of success, even in today's most conservative and repressive religious and political contexts. To Make the Earth Whole also examines the ethical challenges of citizen diplomacy from the perspectives of both Western and Eastern philosophies and religions. The world's wisdom traditions are essential in devising a way for citizens to develop the foundations for global community.

Auteur
Marc Gopin is the James H. Laue Professor of Religion, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution, and the director of the Center on Religion, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University's Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution. He is also an ordained rabbi. His website is www.marcgopin.com.

Contenu

Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 2 Foundations of a Global Community through Citizen Diplomacy
Chapter 3 The State of Religion, Conflict, and Peace: Strategic Foundations for Building Community in a Militant Time
Chapter 4 Religious Power and the Future of Global Society
Chapter 5 Networks that Build a Peaceful Future: A New Approach to Incremental Change
Chapter 6 Citizen Diplomacy and Incremental Change: A New Approach to Peacemaking
Chapter 7 On the Road between Damascus and Jerusalem: A Case Study of Citizen Diplomacy
Chapter 8 Syria 2006-2008: The Transformation of a Relationship
Chapter 9 Diplomacy with a Conscience: The Search for Wisdom in Global Engagement
Chapter 10 Confronting Ethical Dilemmas of Citizen Diplomacy
Chapter 11 Insights from the World's Cultures and Religions on Building Diplomacy
Chapter 12 Conclusions about our Future
Chapter 13 The Future in our Hands: Citizens Building a Social Contract Across Civilizations