The General Theory of Human Conflict: A Structural Framework of Identity, Dignity, and Legitimacy

This paper presents a unified, structural theory of human conflict. Drawing on a broad interdisciplinary review spanning sociology, psychology, political philosophy, anthropology, ethology, and cultural studies, the theory proposes that nearly all forms of conflictinterpersonal, communal, political, cultural, and international-arise when one or more of three symbolic pillars are threatened: identity, dignity, and legitimacy. The framework argues that conflict is fundamentally symbolic rather than material, and that cultural practices-rituals, arts, embodied traditions, music, and communal ceremony-function as regulatory infrastructure that prevents symbolic destabilization and maintains social cohesion. The theory engages critically with existing frameworks in conflict studies while proposing a synthesis that transcends disciplinary boundaries and offers practical implications for peacebuilding, cultural policy, and community development.