A personal perspective: Armed conflict - Interests, values and dialogic encounter

This is essentially a personal perspective in which it is suggested that the roots of many armed conflicts can be traced to the pursuit of dominant interests which are dressed up in the language of values. Dialogue is presented as the human alternative to armed conflict. A non-national forum in which interests and values can be uncovered, and which will provide a context for potential dialogic encounter, is tentatively suggested. Some insights from the realm of counselling and psychotherapy that can contribute to an understanding of the nature of dialogue are explored. The role of counselling as a proactive influence in society is emphasised.