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Abstract
This article proposes a modification of existing theory on the interaction between associational externalities and identity-based conflict, based on a case study of the Davao Ministerial Interfaith in the Mindanao region of the southern Philippines. Current explanations of conflict-related externalities, centring on the work of Robert Putnam and Ashutosh Varshney, tend to emphasize bridging associational structures to the extent of overlooking associational complexity and dynamism. While the case study data confirm the importance of bridging structures, there is equally strong evidence for the role of individual mindsets. Mindsets draw on deeply held beliefs, including religious beliefs, and shifts in mindset can catalyse behavioural and organizational change. Mindsets both enable and limit associational bridging, especially in societies that are deeply divided along identity-based lines. This article proposes a highly applicable, cyclical model for re-conceptualizing the mutual influence of structure and mindsets in shaping an association's conflict-related externalities.
Acknowledgements
I thank Professors Steven Rathgeb Smith, Daniel Chirot, and Feargal Cochrane, as well as three anonymous reviewers, for their constructive comments on this article. Research costs were funded by small grants from the International Peace Research Association Foundation, the Peace and Justice Studies Association, and the Religious Research Association. The Asia Research Institute at the National University of Singapore graciously hosted me as a visiting scholar during this project.
Notes
In Mindanao many Protestants, including the Protestant participants in this research, prefer to be called ‘Evangelicals’.
In the local Visayan language: Hugpong sa Kalambuan – Dabaw.
The author was first introduced to the DMI while on the staff with the World Vision Asia-Pacific Regional Office 2002–2006.
The DMI research team consisted of team leader Sister Joan D. Castro, Ustadz Ahmad Guinar Ampuan Al-Hadj, Pastor Rueland Badoy, Pastor Shirley E. Papio, Brother Salvador O. Veloso, Jr, Pastor Alan Richa, and advisor Pastor Ereberto P. Gopo. Herminegilda Presibitero-Carrillo of World Vision provided technical support.
The DMI has disseminated action research findings locally via a 2010 booklet called ‘Transformed Together’, available at http://michellegarred.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/transformed-together.pdf. The author of this article assisted in compiling the booklet.
Specifically located in Sarangani, South Cotabato, Agusan del Sur, and Zamboanga Provinces.
Approximately 8% of participants considered themselves ethnically indigenous, but they have become Catholic or Protestant leaders. Those who retain indigenous faiths often reside in remote areas and are less commonly engaged in inter-faith activities.
‘Bangsamoro’ means ‘Moro nation.’ The Spanish applied the word ‘Moros’ in a pejorative sense, but Mindanowan Muslims adopt the term as positive in their own usage.
Research team analysis notes, Davao City, 15–16 October 2008.
Roman Catholic priest, male, interview, North Cotabato, 22 April 2007. Participant identities have been anonymized to protect security. Participant quotes have not been edited, except where noted as essential to ensure reader understanding.
For example, the Davao City Jail has asked the DMI to convene a parallel inter-faith network among jail detainees.
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, interview, Davao City, 20 April 2007.
Muslim imam, male, long-form survey, Sarangani, 8 July 2008.
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 19).
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 20).
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, interview, Sarangani, 10 July 2008.
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, interview, Sarangani, 8 July 2008.
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, long-form survey, Davao City, January 2008.
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, long-form survey, Davao City, 12–13 March 2008.
Muslim imam, male, interview, Sarangani, 8 July 2008.
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 19).
Roman Catholic nun, female, long-form survey, Davao City, January 2008.
Muslim ustadz, male, research team consultation, Davao City, 15 January 2009.
Research team analysis notes, Davao City, 17 January 2009.
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 19).
DMI's ‘Transformed Together.’
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (pp. 44–47).
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (pp. 29–55).
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 20).
The term ‘ustad’ refers to a teacher of Islam, as distinct from an ‘imam’ who is a prayer leader or mosque leader.
Roman Catholic nun, female, interview, Davao City, 31 March 2008.
Marapangi Neighbourhood Care Group (six members), focus group interview, Davao City, 22 September 2008.
Research team analysis notes, Davao City, 2–3 April 2008.
Muslim ustadz, male, research team consultation, Davao City, 11 April 2008.
Bunawan Neighbourhood Care Group (four members), focus group interview, Davao City, 12 September 2008.
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, interview, Davao City, 24 October 2008.
Muslim ustadz, male, field notes of author, Davao City, 11 April 2008.
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 61).
DMI's ‘Transformed Together’ (p. 62).
Evangelical Protestant pastor, male, interview, Davao City, 20 April 2007.