IDEA & GOALS:
Today theories and practices of diplomacy are still largely rooted in the “Westphalian model,” a system that aims for the balance of powers between equal, sovereign states and is based on international treaties. It emerged with the 1648 Treaty of Westphalia, which concluded the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648). But by all standards the art of diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution is currently at a low point. What are the deeper roots of this global crisis of diplomacy and human communication? And what alternatives can we develop, based on the rich human experience embedded in diplomatic cultures of other world regions, which were marginalized by the Westphalian model promoted by Western powers and interests?
Our goal is to study indigenous diplomatic cultures of the world’s major macroregions; develop a hybrid exhibit (MIT libraries/online) highlighting alternative diplomatic practices for human thriving; and collaborate on a white paper to distribute and workshop with academics, political and cultural institutions, and policy makers.