Can "Haves" and "Have-Nots" Cooperate? Two Efforts to Bridge a Social Gap
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Date
1977
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science
Abstract
This paper examines two workshops that brought together chief executive officers of large organizations and activists from community groups to pro-mote better intergroup communications and long-term cooperation for social projects. The workshops are described as attempts to create cooperation between noninterdependent and unequally powerful groups. The events /the workshops-one a success and one a failure are analyzed in terms of the evolution of boundaries and the development of power relations. The roles of third parties as influencers of boundary development and power asymmetries are discussed.
Description
This study explores structured Dialogues aimed at bridging conflict between socially unequal groups — the "Haves" and "Have-nots" — in an urban setting. Despite third-party facilitation, power asymmetries and differing ideologies led to communication breakdowns and walkouts. Eventually, the "Have-nots" proposed an alternative project, highlighting the complex emotional and political dynamics at play. The role of consultants as boundary managers was critical but fraught with ambivalence and conflicting expectations.
Keywords
Haves and Have-nots, Boundary Management, Social Justice, Communication, Climate
Citation
Brown, L. Dave. (1977). Can ""Haves"" and ""Have-Nots"" Cooperate? Two Efforts to Bridge a Social Gap. The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science.
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