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To Make the Earth Whole studies the art of citizen diplomacy process that can address clashes of religion and culture across regional lines even when traditional negotiations between governments can fail. Using a five year experiment in Syria as the central case study, Marc Gopin outlines the way to create community across lines of enmity, the social network theory to explain how this happens, and the long term vision required for a progressive but inclusive global community that respects religious communities even as it limits their coercive power over others.
"When Mark Gopin, a peacemaker and a rabbi, found himself speaking to 3,000 congregants at the great mosque in Aleppo with the Grand Mufti of Syria by his side, he knew that something very special was happening. To Make the Earth Whole is a profoundly moving and gripping account of one man's attempt to practice citizen diplomacy in an unlikely and dangerous environment. More than that, it is a brilliant brief for peacemaking by inspired practitioners able to heal shattered relationships by building new social and spiritual networks. Gopin's tone is wise and personal: the voice of a modern sage. His book makes one understand that there is no real conflict between worldly realism and radical hope."—Richard E. Rubenstein, Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution, George Mason University
To Make the Earth Whole studies the art of citizen diplomacy—a process that can address clashes of religion and culture across regional lines even when traditional negotiations between governments can fail. While faith and regional differences have been sources of division around the world in recent decades, millions of citizens are also creating bonds of friendship and collaboration that are forming the basis of a global community.
Drawing on the experiences gleaned from years practicing citizen diplomacy in some of the world's most politically charged climates, scholar-practitioner of conflict resolution and rabbi Marc Gopin describes his work in Syria as a central case study of the book. The author outlines the strategic basis for creating community across lines of enmity, the social network theory to explain how this happens, and the long term vision required for a progressive but inclusive global community that respects religious communities even as it limits their coercive power over others. This powerful and practical book outlines an incremental and evolutionary strategy of positive change that stands a strong chance of success, even in today's most conservative and repressive religious and political contexts.
To Make the Earth Whole also examines the ethical challenges of citizen diplomacy from the perspectives of both Western and Eastern philosophies and religions. The world's wisdom traditions are essential in devising a way for citizens to develop the foundations for global community.
- A compelling combination of the latest theories in conflict resolution and rich personal experience in the field of interreligious peacebuilding, particularly in the Middle East.
- Central case study of Syria sheds light on a little-understood country that is key to efforts towards peace in the region.
- Accessibly written for use by students, scholars and practitioners in the field of conflict resolution, government officials, and general readers interested in the potential for citizen diplomacy to make a positive change in our world.
Marc Gopin is the James H. Laue Professor of Religion, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution, and the director of the Center on Religion, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University's Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution. He is also an ordained rabbi. His website is www.marcgopin.com.
Table of Contents: Introduction • Foundations of a Global Community through Citizen Diplomacy • The State of Religion, Conflict, and Peace: Strategic Foundations for Building Community in a Militant Time • Religious Power and the Future of Global Society • Networks that Build a Peaceful Future: A New Approach to Incremental Change • Citizen Diplomacy and Incremental Change: A New Approach to Peacemaking • On the Road between Damascus and Jerusalem: A Case Study of Citizen Diplomacy • Syria 2006-2008: The Transformation of a Relationship • Diplomacy with a Conscience: The Search for Wisdom in Global Engagement • Confronting Ethical Dilemmas of Citizen Diplomacy • Insights from the World's Cultures and Religions on Building Diplomacy • Conclusions about our Future • The Future in our Hands: Citizens Building a Social Contract Across Civilizations
