The Choreography of Resolution: Conflict, Movement and Neuroscience’ Michelle Le Baron, Carrie Macleod, and Andrew Floyer Acland, EDITORS

Abstract

This is an exciting book, containing many revolutionary ideas that challenge mediation ideology and practice. The book starts with a quote from James Joyce about Mr. Duffy, who “lived a short distance from his body”. This humorous statement aptly captures how many involved in conflict and conflict resolution live in their heads in a state of disconnection from their body. Mediation and mediators are embedded in modern culture with belief systems that privilege mind and sight over body, spirit and imagination. The body mind split propounded by Descartes centuries ago continues to hold sway in our society. The Choreography of Resolution shifts this paradigm of the world, moving to a comprehension of life and conflict resolution that focuses on dance, movement and somatic experience. Anyone reading this book will be challenged to revisit their relationship with their bodies and the significance of dance and movement in their lives.