An editorial entitled Can Neuroscience Inform Peacebuilding? has been published in the European Journal of Neuroscience. The article is devoted to the potential use of knowledge about brain function in conflict prevention, de-escalation and reconciliation processes. One of the authors is Zofia Kachlik, M.D., a psychiatry resident and researcher affiliated with the Department of Adult Psychiatry at the MUG. The co-authors are Maria Dimitriu from the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, and Ali Jawaid, M.D., Ph.D. from the FENS-Kavli Network of Excellence and the Translational Neuropsychiatry Research Group operating within the Łukasiewicz Research Network – PORT in Wrocław.
The authors note that social and armed conflicts have not only political, historical or economic dimensions. Their course is also linked to the way in which the human brain responds to fear, uncertainty and a sense of threat. These mechanisms may influence decision-making, reinforce prejudice and hinder openness to different perspectives. Knowledge from the field of neuroscience may therefore help to provide a better understanding of the biopsychosocial foundations of conflicts and the processes that lead to their escalation.
The publication also describes the impact of propaganda and disinformation on the way information is processed. The authors indicate that highly emotionally charged content may exploit existing cognitive mechanisms and increase susceptibility to simplified, fear-based interpretations of reality. Collective and intergenerational trauma, associated, among other factors, with experiences of war and displacement, may also be of particular significance, as it can influence the way subsequent threats are perceived.
At the same time, the authors point to the potential use of neuroscience in activities supporting peacebuilding. One important area is the development of empathy and the capacity to adopt the perspective of another person. In this context, the publication discusses, among other examples, experiences involving virtual reality (VR), which allow participants to view situations from the perspective of representatives of other groups. Research also indicates that appropriately designed psychosocial interventions may influence prejudice and support dialogue between groups in conflict.
The publication also highlights the potential of neuroplasticity. Mechanisms responsible for prejudice, hostility or limited empathy do not necessarily have to remain unchanged. The authors present research findings suggesting that appropriately designed experiences, training and interventions may support changes in established patterns of response. At the same time, they emphasise that the use of new neurobiological technologies in the area of peacebuilding must take place with respect for ethical principles, human rights and appropriate safeguards.
In conclusion, the article indicates that neuroscience may in the future complement traditional methods of conflict prevention, mediation and peacebuilding. A better understanding of the mechanisms related to fear, prejudice, aggression, empathy and cooperation may help not only to explain the sources of conflicts, but also to develop science-based approaches to supporting dialogue and reconciliation.
Full text of the publication: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ejn.70593
