American conflict resolvers actively solicit and listen to the experiences, emotions, and viewpoints of all parties involved. This includes witness testimony and personal accounts, which provide important context and help reveal underlying interests or motivations.
Salem witches
The Crucible by Arthur Miller. Set during the Salem witch trials, the play dramatizes how accusations and personal testimonies can override objective evidence. Judges in the play struggle to distinguish truth from hysteria, weighing conflicting testimonies and scant evidence. The play critiques and exemplifies the American tradition of judicial inquiry, showing both its strengths and its dangers when subjective testimony overwhelms objective fact.
Judge Judy
Judge Judy (and other courtroom reality shows). Real-life small claims cases are presented before Judge Judy Sheindlin, who listens to both parties, examines evidence, and cross-examines witnesses before issuing a binding verdict. Judge Judy’s approach epitomizes the American manager-as-judge logic: she considers both objective facts (documents, receipts, contracts) and subjective testimony (personal accounts, explanations) before making a decision.
both sides
“Let’s hear both sides of the story.” Emphasizes the importance of considering all perspectives—objective facts and subjective witness accounts—before making a decision.
“The jury is still out.”
“The jury is still out.” Indicates that a decision hasn’t been made yet because all evidence and arguments are still being considered.