Identifying and resolving challenges to the effectiveness of collective apologies (ARC Discovery Project administered by Flinders University) (2013-2016)
Abstract
Injustices perpetrated from one group to another can burden intergroup relations and plant the seeds for future conflict. An apology from the offending group is often deemed helpful for relational repair, and recent years have seen an increase in such collective apologies. However, the little research available shows a mixed picture of their effects. In systematically focusing on the distinct features of intergroup contexts, this project offers a novel analysis of the challenges to the effectiveness of collective apologies and ways to overcome them. Using creative experimental and survey approaches, the research will aid societies in harnessing the potential of collective apologies towards forgiveness and reconciliation.
