Conflict is sometimes said to be the normal condition of human society; peace is the exception that requires explanation. Many of today's conflicts are peculiarly resistant to efforts at resolution because a set of contradictory logics tilts the balance toward their perpetuation. For example, while most conflicts today are internal wars, almost all international modalities are designed for inter-state warfare.
Then there is the reality of increasing internationalization and globalization despite the persistence of competitive nationalisms. In Kashmir, the secular nationalism of India collides with the religious nationalism of Pakistan and the ethnic nationalism of Kashmiris.
To resolve a conflict, we must recognize that there are at least two parties, both with elements of right and wrong, and that there is a need for flexibility and pragmatism that permits compromise and accommodation. National or religious zealotry fights against any of this.
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