Integrating Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking with Western nomology: A moderating model of trust in conflict management

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to relate Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking to Western nomology in terms of trust and trust building, seeking to explore the question of how trust impacts on conflict management.

Design/methodology/approach

A moderating model of trust in conflict management is proposed. Investigations and observations using primary and secondary data are described. Three cases are presented to explain the moderating effects of adjusting activities and trust on conflict and negotiation.

Findings

The proposed model was supported. The following findings have been obtained: keeping a balance between adjusting others and adjusting self is a key to resolving conflict; creating and retaining harmony is a bridge that leads both sides in conflict and negotiation to adjust themselves; taking indirect actions through relationships instead of by direct actions through power is a good way to trigger a state of harmony; and trust is shown to be the original driver and source that contribute to adapting actions, harmony and eventually to a win‐win negotiation outcome.

Research limitations/implications

The investigations were limited in time and scope and consequently not conclusive.

Practical implications

This research may provide practical implictions for people and organizations interested in conflict resolution who wish to: take a position that values trust; take indirect actions through relationship instead of direct actions through power; create and retain harmony between both sides in conflict and negotiation; and keep a balance between adjusting others and adjusting self, so to achieve win‐win negotiation outcomes.

Originality/value

This research may enhance the understanding of Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking by linking it with the Western nomology.

Citation

Du, R., Ai, S. and Brugha, C.M. (2011), "Integrating Taoist Yin‐Yang thinking with Western nomology: A moderating model of trust in conflict management", Chinese Management Studies, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 55-67. https://doi.org/10.1108/17506141111118453