Peaceful Interaction
An Interpersonal Framework
The correspond to , that progress from a superficial but sincere contact that should be possible with anyone at all, to a deep and much desired ambience of comfort that is only possible with a select few.
The is as follows:
- : Contacts
- : Exchanges
- : Bonds
- : Coexistence
- : Harmony
Where did this framework come from?
There is a natural flowing transition from one Interpersonal Plane to the next, and this reveals a reverse progression in the associated as explained in the dropdown.
See the Transitions
- On Plane #5, interactions are simply contacts. These may be more or less transient and their duration and quality can be a matter of i.e. based on . If contact is satisfactory, then …
- On Plane #4, some tangible exchange is possible. These are built around mutually beneficial i.e. as defined by . If exchanges are worthwhile and persistent, then …
- On Plane #3, bonds may well develop in accord with the of those involved i.e. as expressed in . As bonds develop people know more of each other and perceive differences, so …
- On Plane #2, co-existence emerges so as to prevent hostile rejection due to deep differences. These differences will be traceable to , which derive from . However, if coexistence persists, then …
- On Plane #1, harmony is possible leading to like peace and fraternity i.e. . There are no further steps required or needed.
Plane by Plane
Plane #5: Interpersonal Contacts
The peaceful interpersonal state is one in which even superficial interactions with acquaintances or strangers are characterized by sincerity. Society often arranges itself via respect-deference hierarchies.
If in any contact there is abrasiveness, then peace is disrupted and pain emerges. By purifying yourself-R"G35 through self-scrutiny, the situation can be resolved and sincerity restored.
The social danger comes from crowding, which makes contact pressured and forces withdrawal reactions to preserve privacy.
Plane #4: Interpersonal Exchanges
The peaceful interpersonal state has interactions of exchange characterized by reciprocity. This applies as much to kin as to partners or affiliates. Power inequalities always raise a possibility of exploitation.
If in any exchange there is unfairness, then peace is disrupted and pain emerges. By making a sacrifice-R"G34 through devotion to another, the unfairness is perceived in a new light and reciprocity is restored.
The social danger comes from hardship, which makes exchanges pressured and forces self-protection as a response to survival anxieties.
Plane #3: Interpersonal Bonds
The peaceful interpersonal state has interactions characterized by benevolence within sustained relationships involving friends or intimates. Power issues often emerge here in subtle and manipulative ways.
If in any bond there is a betrayal, then peace is disrupted and suffering emerges. By being generous-R"G33 and drawing on reserves of goodwill, the crisis of trust can be handled and benevolence restored.
The social danger comes from separation, which weakens the bonds and stimulates formation of a replacement relation to meet personal needs.
Plane #2: Interpersonal Co-existence
The peaceful interpersonal state has interactions based on coexistence and characterized by tolerance. This is found amongst colleagues and rivals, and the emergence of power means open hostilities.
If coexistence is marked by a confrontation, then peace is disrupted and suffering emerges. By being forgiving-R"G32 through sympathy, confrontations subside and tolerance is restored.
The social danger comes from conflicts, which lead to repeated confrontations, increased hostilities and desires to reject others.
Plane #1: Interpersonal Harmony
The peaceful interpersonal state has interactions within any group based on harmony and characterized by reconciliation amongst diverse sub-groups.
If harmony amongst group members is unbalanced by domination, then peace is disrupted and pain results. By being grateful-R"G31 through a sense of sufficiency for living, the domination can be ignored and harmony restored to the group.
The social danger comes from fear, which prevents reconciliation. It makes domination seem terrifying and invites a counter-domination which is equally unsatisfactory.
See a Matrix Summary
apply whatever your situation or the behaviour of others. If some other person or group actively wants to inflict pain, an issue of arises.
- This takes us up to the next level in producing goodness: building character.
Originally posted: 26-Apr-2013
All posted material is part of a scientific project and should be regarded as provisional. Visitors are encouraged to think through the topics and propositions for themselves. Copyright © Warren Kinston 2009-2016.
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