Beyond the Bedrock: The Third-Party as a Great Attractor in the Resolution of Deep Disagreement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajahs.v5i3.7767Keywords:
Deep Disagreement, Dynamical Systems Theory, Great Attractor, Third Party, Trialogue, Macedonian ConflictAbstract
This paper deals with the “impossibility thesis” in relation to the phenomenon of deep disagreements, which suggests that fundamental disputes over “hinge” beliefs cannot be resolved through rational methods. By integrating argumentation theory with Dynamical Systems Theory (DST), this study proposes a shift from dyadic (two-party) models to a “trialogical” approach. A key element of this approach is the introduction of a Third Party, envisioned as a “Great Attractor.” Using the 2001 Macedonian conflict as a case study, this analysis demonstrates how the structural role of a Third Party can break the cycle of deep disagreement and navigate the parties toward a reasoned resolution. The Great Attractor model shows that deep disagreements can be addressed rationally through structural intervention rather than logical persuasion, thereby creating new grounds for cooperation, even amidst persistent fundamental disagreements.
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