Americans evaluate conflicts and their resolution primarily through the lens of fairness. Was the process fair? Were all parties heard? Did the outcome make sense given what happened?
A resolution that feels fair is acceptable even if imperfect; a resolution that feels unfair is problematic even if it ends the dispute. Americans pay close attention to whether they’re being treated equitably and react strongly when they perceive unfairness. This focus on fairness creates standards: processes should follow rules, similar cases should be treated similarly, and power shouldn’t determine outcomes inappropriately. When resolving conflicts with Americans, attend carefully to fairness—both in how you handle the process and in what outcomes you seek.
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