NOTES

MAIN FACTORS IN GENOCIDE (Staub 1996)

Factors which contribute to the development of genocide:

1. Difficult life conditions and basic needs

2. Group characteristics and the evolution of conflict
a. Devaluation and ideology of antagonism
b. Authority, obedience and monolithic society
c. Cultural-societal self concepts
d. A history of aggressiveness
e. Group motives and values
f. Dissociation and integration

3. The role of and power of bystanders

Creating caring societies and peaceful group relations:

1. A positive view of human beings and other-oriented motives

2. Resolving deep-seated hostility

3. Socialization, stability, and ideals

4. The need for a positive vision

The evolution of positive group relations:

1. Cross-cutting relations

2. Positive actions and systems of positive reciprocity

3. Joint projects and superordinate goals

(see Summary, p. 152)

Staub, Ervin, 1989, The Roots of Evil: The Origins of Genocide and Other Group Violence, NY: Cambridge University Press.

Also see Staub, Ervin, 1996, "The Psychological and Cultural Roots of Group Violence and the Creation of Caring Societies and Peaceful Group Relations," in A Natural History of Peace, Thomas Gregor, ed., Nashville, TN: Vanderbilt University Press, pp, 129-155.