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How Lincoln Inspired Harmony Through Alternative Dispute Resolution and Humor

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How Lincoln Inspired Harmony Through Alternative Dispute Resolution and Humor

One of the most notable U.S. presidents is Abraham Lincoln. While he was best known for freeing slaves and leading the country out of the Civil War, what most do not realize is that he was a lawyer who literally discouraged litigation. He apparently also could relieve tension by cracking a good joke. It is powerful to imagine how Lincoln inspired harmony through alternative dispute resolution and humor.

President Lincoln was perhaps most famous for signing the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which on paper gave slaves their freedom. Lincoln also led the nation through tumultuous civil war and post-war reformation periods. 

Many agree that his leadership dramatically changed the trajectory of the nation for the better. Beyond abolishing slavery, Lincoln’s dedication to the law and what we now call alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has paved the way for more peaceful means of resolving conflict. 

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How the Wise Use of Caucusing in Mediation Can Promote Elegant Resolutions to Conflict

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How the Wise Use of Caucusing in Mediation Can Promote Elegant Resolutions to Conflict

A caucus is a private meeting that mediators may hold with each disputant. One benefit of a caucus is that it promotes openness and candor, in a safe and private setting. Also, in caucus the mediator may use coaching techniques to help parties explore effective ways to work through difficult conversations with the other party. When used wisely, caucusing can promote elegant resolutions to conflict.

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How Mediators Break Impasse – Without Giving Advice or Giving Up

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How Mediators Break Impasse – Without Giving Advice or Giving Up

Mediators have so many advantages on our side. First, the mediation process is so reliably promising. Most mediated cases result in a resolution. Second, mediators who trust the process won’t give up easily. Finally, mediator standards of conduct foster self-determination of the parties. Nevertheless, there are still times when the parties are so entrenched in their respective positions, it’s hard to envision a pathway to agreement. After over 25 years in this field, I will admit there are occasions, if the parties haven’t said it first, I’ve had a fleeting thought, “This will never resolve.” Even in those tough cases, like any seasoned mediator, I will rely on a few simple strategies to break impasse, without giving advice or giving up. Ultimately, the parties co-create their own elegant resolution.

 

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