A Review of Philosophy of Conflict Resolution Approach in Tong-Il Moo-Do Martial Arts

Introduction

The main concern of every organization and researchers in the field of conflict resolution and management is how to establish communities that will be free of violence and exploitation. With the rapid advancement of technology, it seems that traditional approaches to conflict resolution and management have failed to cope with the appearance of new problems and conflicts. Terrorism and ethnic conflicts has created global distress and disorder. Many people worldwide suffer from severe hunger, poverty, corrupt leadership, racial and religious prejudice, violence, AIDS, drug, alcohol abuse and environmental disasters (International Educational Foundation, n.d). Scholars agree that more than any time, there is an imminent need for Global leadership initiatives on sustainability for conflict resolution and peace building among the nations in the world (Sertyesilisik, 2018).

The 20^th century events, clearly shows that peace did not last long and every time new conflicts aroused (Mirshahi, 2018). Prevalent moral crisis and conflict continue to increase in spite of unprecedented technological and economic prosperity. The early publicly reported conflicts were during the second half of 20th century by teachers who observed an increasing toxic trend in their schools: 81 percent less respect for authority, 73 percent decline in ethics and morals, 65 percent less responsible attitudes, and 60 percent showed increased self-centered attitudes in children. In April 1999, the world was shocked when two students at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado shot dead twelve of their fellow students and a teacher, and wounding many others (As cited in International Educational Foundation, 2001).

As the forms of conflicts changes and become more complex, new emerging universal approaches to conflict resolution and management are deemed to appear that can lead humanity towards peace and sustainable development. Researchers argue that leadership theories and development may no longer be effective in this global context as leaders are exposed to many complex challenges (Story, 2011, p. 375).

In this regard, Tong-Il Moo Do Martial Arts have pioneered a new approach based on the Universal Principles of Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Hak Ja Han Moon. This value system emphasizes on the belief that human society is governed similar to the natural universal laws (World Tong-Il Moo Do Federation, 2003). Their teachings are based on the observation of the operation and organization of the universe which runs with similar principles in a profound order and harmony.

Violation of the universal principles causes harm to the heart of human being. To reverse the harm, concrete steps should be taken by parties involved to restore the peace and harmony back to its original state. Dr. Sun Myung Moon in his speech in 1991 on the topic the way to world peace stated: “Without having a clear philosophy of peace, there can be no true methodology for achieving peace” (Peyong Hwa Gyeong, 2014). He asserted that conflict always starts with the individual and extends to higher levels of family, community, national and world. Therefore, to solve the higher level of conflict, TIMD starts with fixing the individual level conflict and extend it to the higher level. Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon in the fortieth anniversary of TIMDO in 2019 reasserted that “it is tremendously difficult to bring unity in the family, nation and world when the individual still struggles from mind and body disunity” (ipeacetv.com).

Kutz, Kutz, Weiser, & Weiser (1995) stated that important goal of martial arts programs is to generalize the values that are emphasized in their training, such as respect, humility, responsibility, perseverance and honor. Studies conducted by Binder (2007) claims positive psychological consequences of martial arts. It was found that the physical exercise that is involved in martial arts can increase self-esteem and self-confidence. He also emphasized that inclusion of the values and philosophy of the martial arts and instructors’ positive role model, play an important role in promoting long-term positive changes in trainees. Furthermore, Lantz (2002) indicated a positive impact on the family developments of trainees as well.