ABSTRACT
This chapter builds on Chapter 1, which locates AE in the larger literature and evolution of the field of creative conflict engagement and roots it in a progressive unfolding notion of theories of knowledge – or epistemology – for peace. It presents epistemologies of practice (or theories of knowledge which shape and condition practice) underneath each set of creative conflict engagement theories and methods. In this chapter, an inquiry about the nature of knowledge and its application focuses on individual, group and systems levels of analysis. In building a systematic approach to conflict engagement evaluation, the reflexive relationship within oneself – in self-reflexivity one is both subject and object of inquiry – is the starting point in the search for success in definitions and actions. From there the relational dynamic between self-knowing individuals in some group context having achieved relational reflexivity about success, is the next step (i.e., intragroup reflexivity). Finally, at the level of most complexity, the community of groups (i.e., intergroup reflexivity) represents the highest order of interactive reflexivity – wherein individuals constitute their groups, which in turn constitute the community of groups – reach deep intersubjective agreement about what constitutes success, in theory, and then go on to pursue it in practice. This, all while assessing and capturing lessons en route.
