Constructive Controversy: Theory, Research, Practice

Description

Why do people make decisions based on their own perspective without considering alternative points of view? Do differences of opinion enhance or obstruct critical thinking? Is it wise to seek out people who disagree with you and listen to their objections to your conclusions? Focusing on the theory, research, and application of constructive controversy, this book analyses the nature of disagreement among members of decision-making groups, project teams, academic study groups, and other groups that are involved in solving problems. Johnson demonstrates that this theory is one of the most effective methods of enhancing creativity and innovation, decision making, teaching, and political discourse. The book includes entertaining and intriguing examples of how constructive controversy has been used in a variety of historical periods to advance creativity, achieve innovations, and guide democracies. It will be welcomed by students in the fields of social psychology, management/business studies, education, and communication studies.

David W. Johnson is Emeritus Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota.

'This book is a must-read for any scholar and practitioner who is interested in constructive controversy. It provides a breathtaking journey in the history of one of the most powerful mechanisms in social interaction, and a wealth of insights on how to foster informed political decisions, accompany accurate professional choices, and elicit diversified learning.' Fabrizio Butera, University of Lausanne 'Hurray for cooperation! Johnson's argument about the value of cooperation in the context of controversy is theoretically cogent, research based, and practically relevant. This is a major achievement that should be celebrated by academics and practitioners alike. You will thoroughly enjoy reading this book.' Daniel Druckman, George Mason University, Macquarie University and the University of Queensland 'The result of decades of theory, research, and practice in a wide variety of settings, but primarily education and business, this book will be invaluable for those involved in conflict resolution, no matter the circumstances.' Choice 'One could use Constructive Controversy as a jumping-off point to motivate students by engaging in real-life problems and branching out to the fundamentals of why and how the process works and how the desired outcomes are affected by the nature of the process that is used to engage people. Along the way are opportunities for students to discover for themselves aspects of cognition, human development, and the psychology of emotion.' PsychCRITIQUES