Whether it’s a new myth, new metaphor, or new science, we need it: something that can help bind and direct the peacemakers among us. Harvard University’s new International Negotiation Program represents one move toward a unifying body of thought that could serve this role.

It seems virtuous, disciplined — wholesome, even. But is the time-honored conflict-avoiding technique of ‘picking your battles’ causing more problems than it solves? Here’s why picking your battles has a dark side.

The art and heart of storytelling: we have a need to tell and hear one another’s stories; to communicate our yearnings and fears, share our history and humor. Through storytelling we discover magic, ignite imagination and heal community.

In my work as a therapist, I find that lying — to oneself and to loved ones — is a major obstacle to change. For many, the advice “just tell the truth” misses the myriad causes of lying and the skill set necessary to tell the truth even when the stakes are high.

It’s so easy to fear, misunderstand, or dislike those people, places, and things about which you are truly ignorant. But sometimes getting know to them does more than take away the fear or the potential for misunderstanding; sometimes it turns strangers into family.

If there ever was a perennial parental complaint, I’d have to say it is “why won’t my child listen to me?” When you know some of the most common reasons why your little one is ignoring or defying you, you have a better chance of being heard and getting what you want.

Long-term romantic relationships were never easy, but Internet pornography is now becoming a problem for all too many couples. The key to defeating online smut is to understand and counter its allure.