Tim Hicks Publications

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Embodied Conflict: the neural basis of conflict and communication

Embodied Conflict: the neural basis of conflict and communication (Routledge, 2018), an investigation of neural function and how its characteristics contribute conflict and the challenges of resolving conflict.

My most recent book, Embodied Conflict: the neural basis of conflict and communication, has been called groundbreaking. It offers insight into how the way our brain functions helps to explain why conflicts happen, why they can often be so difficult to prevent or resolve, and why we have the perceptual biases that we do. With better understanding of why we behave the way we do in the face of disagreements and differences, we can be more able to better manage and engage in our social relationships.

Information on Embodied Conflict: the neural basis of conflict and communication can be found at:

  • www.amazon.com/Embodied-Conflict-Neural-Basis-Communication/dp/1138087114
  • www.routledge.com/9781138087118

You can get a 30% discount at that URL using the code ADS19

Introduction to Embodied Conflict: the neural roots of conflict and communication
Characteristics of the neural encoding function, the basis of learning, memory, cognition, and identity, are at the root of and help to explain conflict in our social relations and why some conflicts are difficult to prevent and resolve. Embodied Conflict presents the neural encoding function in layman’s terms, outlining seven key characteristics and exploring their implications for communication, relationship, and conflict resolution.

Book Reviews | Embodied Conflict: the neural basis of conflict and communication

“Practical, accessible, easy to read, and yet deeply rooted in science, Tim Hicks has written an extremely valuable book for conflict specialists or for anyone struggling to understand the conflicts they face in life. Starting from the premise that ‘an understanding of the neural workings of the brain’ will help us to better understand and intervene in conflict, Hicks walks us carefully through an understanding of essential concepts of neural science and then applies these both broadly and specifically to how we can understand what happens in conflict and how we can use this understanding in very practical ways. This is a very valuable addition to our understanding of conflict.”

“Addressing one of the important issues of our times, Tim Hicks provides a clear and readable analysis of the scientific basis of human conflict.  At a basic level, he explains the mind’s embodied basis in the neurobiology of personal development.  At the same time, he also recognizes the psychological reality of conflict.  We must realize that what we are negotiating in our most intense conflicts is not just some material self- interest, but the very foundations of our identities.”

“Embodied Conflict: The Neural Basis of Conflict and Communication by Tim Hicks is a well-written and thoroughly researched explanation of this new and vital area of thought for mediators and dispute resolution professionals, the best compilation of this knowledge base that I have seen.”

…… just finished your book. I have never underlined so many passages in a book as I have with ‘Embodied Conflict’. More than presenting the new insight of neural structure and physiology into conflict understanding and resolution you have provided an immensely valuable compendium of conflict resolution concepts and practices. Perhaps the benefit of having read various mediation texts addressing such methods as transformative insight interest-based mediation etc. helped me appreciate the depth and breadth of your ‘discussion’ as you call it. If your ‘discussion’ was my first read I would not have appreciated the wealth of wisdom you share. Thank you for your contribution the conflict resolution field.

I love your new book. I am running out of highlighters. This is a must read for every conflict worker or anyone in a related field!

Your book is one of the missing puzzle pieces in the puzzling world of conflict. It’s a brilliantly articulated work that speaks to the “why” aspect of conflict. It should be on every reading list for students studying the field of conflict resolution.

This book and the ideas within it are truly ground-breaking. I’ve been waiting for something like this to come along and make sense of much of what we talk about in conflict resolution.

Embodied Conflict: The Neural Basis of Conflict and Communication is one of the missing puzzle pieces in the puzzling world of conflict. This brilliantly articulated work speaks to the “why” aspect of conflict. Tim takes you on a vibrant journey through the complex and neural workings of the brain to help you understand and navigate conflict effectively.  It is a must-read for every conflict worker. It should be on every reading list for students studying the field of conflict resolution. This book provides real-world examples and suggestions for both entry-level and advanced conflict workers in addressing and resolving conflict. I deeply believe in the content of the book and the person who wrote it.

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