ABSTRACT
This chapter explains how the paradigm of Peace—especially Positive Peace—functions conceptually. Positive peace is a distinct concept indicating that violence of any kind is not used to achieve or maintain it. The chapter also explores three other dominant paradigms: Economic, Risk and Human Rights. Paradigms could be that bridge between theory and practice, as well as being the potential foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies. The most distinctive difference is that a Positive Peace paradigm can incorporate other CSR paradigms, leading to improved conflict outcomes and less violence overall. Peace-building processes of conflict transformation address cultural, structural or direct violence and result in positive peace. Following both Galtung and John Paul Lederach, a paradigm of positive peace is less about prescribing actions or listing a series of culturally or policy specific 'shoulds' and 'should nots' and more about cultivating an attitude both at the individual and at the group level.
