Dear All
I often rely on Varda in order to get a better grounding for our group's work (please meet Varda on our Advisory Board). Our aim is not to become a political group that engages in day-to-day campaigning. We would like to make an effort to work long-term and above fault lines.
Varda helps us keep the compass in the right direction. Clearly, one has to expect some zig-zag course, it is always a delicate balance, so, the main direction is important.
Warmly!
Evelin

Varda writes:
The Human Dignity and Humiliation Studies was established to investigate and understand a despicable phenomenon such as humiliation and maybe come up with theories to minimize that aspect of human interaction and study ways to reinforce alternative aspects, mainly dignity.

I am saying that because there is an imminent risk that daily dealings with the Palestenian/Israeli conflict can very easily outstrip any other issue and take over the front stage. And I guess that it won't be the first time that the emotionality involved in that conflict managed to do that. I think that everybody should be reminded that humilation is almost an intergral part of many relations, starting from kindergarten and onward. I see it happening among young children and grown adults. I see it in arenas as diffferent as the workplace and in the home among parents and children and among men and women.

Humiliation is also part of acute conflicts and particularly in wars. Still, as far as the horrendous bloodshed that happens in war zones - I think it is worse than humiliation. As a cognitive psychologist I can assure you that when someone humiliates you, you do not automatically become humiliated - there are buffers - and I'll write about it. However, when you are dead - that is it !!

In addition, a great part of the conflict is now happening in the media. It almost has a life of its own ....

Varda Mühlbauer