As part of the AIRESS Research Seminar, Professor Zachary Garfield will explore the topic of conflict and cooperation among rural pastoralists in Ethiopia’s Omo Valley on Wednesday, January 22nd.The presentation will highlight the primary causes of disputes, methods of resolution, and the influence of social structures.

ABSTRACT

Research in small-scale rural societies provides important insights into human psychology and behavior, particularly how social dynamics shape cooperation and conflict resolution in the absence of state-based political structures. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing a complete and culturally inclusive behavioral science and designing effective policies that are transportable across diverse socio-ecologies. This presentation explores cooperation and conflict among rural pastoralists in Ethiopia's Omo Valley, focusing on third-party mediation, social structures, and both formal and informal social ties, such as friendship. We identify primary causes of disputes, noting that women more frequently engage in social conflicts, while men are more likely to conflict over resources. Mediation is more common in social disputes and close relationships, with gender influencing mediator roles. Additionally, we present new data on women's social networks and their roles within a patriarchal society, highlighting mechanisms by which women use their social environment to accomplish goals despite strong patriarchal norms. By integrating anthropology, sociology, and network science, this research aims to understand how individuals build social relationships, navigate conflicts, and access resources. These findings can aid in developing policies that enhance community resilience and promote gender equity in rural settings facing contemporary global challenges and undergoing economic transition.