In popular perception cultural differences or ethnic affiliation are
factors that cause conflict or political fragmentation although this is
not borne out by historical evidence. This book puts forward an
alternative conflict theory. The author develops a decision theory which
explains the conditions under which differing types of identification
are preferred. Group identification is linked to competition for
resources like water, territory, oil, political charges, or other
advantages. Rivalry for resources can cause conflicts but it does not
explain who takes whose side in a conflict situation. This book explores
possibilities of reducing violent conflicts and ends with a case study,
based on personal experience of the author, of conflict resolution.