Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life
By Marshall B. Rosenberg, Ph.D.
1) Nonviolent Communication is a step-by-step manual to an alternate means of quotidian communication. Rosenberg suggests that Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is nothing new in terms of communication skills, but that this book is intended to remind readers of the essential pieces of these skills, and make NVC a clearer process to anyone who struggles with clear and mutually beneficial interactions, or who struggles with violent or mis- communication. The four components of NVC are observations, feelings, needs, and requests. The means of successfully recognizing and subsequently communicating these components are described in-depth through the 13 chapters, and reinforced throughout with examples of Rosenberg’s own experiences.
Nonviolent Communication is clear, insightful, and above all, straightforward. It makes no pretenses that NVC is simple -- indeed, the book stresses how difficult it can be to begin communication nonviolently. I believe that NVC is most useful in intimate relationships, but the book is replete with examples of the successes of NVC in all settings, from schools to counseling relationships to diplomatic and business negotiations. Rosenberg’s book is easy to read, though it can become repetitive due to the author’s attempts to make all aspects of NVC crystal in clarity. I believe this book would prove less engaging to younger audiences than older audiences, but it is comprehensible and useful to any library patron.
2) This book coincides with all of Beyond War’s core practices. It is especially pertinent to the first two, I will resolve conflict, I will not use violence and I will maintain an attitude of goodwill, I will not preoccupy myself with an enemy. I suggest that Nonviolent Communication be included on the Core List because it not only reinforces Beyond War’s ideals, but provides individuals with the means to put these ideals into practice. For any individual for whom the principles of Beyond War are appealing but daunting, this book is an excellent guide.
3. 1. What aspect(s) of NVC struck you as the most difficult to put into practice? What solutions did Rosenberg offer to these difficulties, or what solutions can you think of?
2. How could communicating nonviolently help Beyond War leaders and members in spreading the ideals of Beyond War to a wider audience?
3. Were there any circumstances that you thought of where NVC seemed a far-fetched means of communicating? What is exceptional about these circumstances? How might NVC be evolved to pertain to such situations?
4. Which relationship(s) on your life could benefit most from nonviolent communication? Do you feel sufficiently equipped after reading Rosenberg’s book to change the way you communicate in these relationships?
5. Consider individuals in your life whom you feel communicate violently. Would you consider sharing Nonviolent Communication with them?
By Marshall B. Rosenberg, Ph.D.
1) Nonviolent Communication is a step-by-step manual to an alternate means of quotidian communication. Rosenberg suggests that Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is nothing new in terms of communication skills, but that this book is intended to remind readers of the essential pieces of these skills, and make NVC a clearer process to anyone who struggles with clear and mutually beneficial interactions, or who struggles with violent or mis- communication. The four components of NVC are observations, feelings, needs, and requests. The means of successfully recognizing and subsequently communicating these components are described in-depth through the 13 chapters, and reinforced throughout with examples of Rosenberg’s own experiences.
Nonviolent Communication is clear, insightful, and above all, straightforward. It makes no pretenses that NVC is simple -- indeed, the book stresses how difficult it can be to begin communication nonviolently. I believe that NVC is most useful in intimate relationships, but the book is replete with examples of the successes of NVC in all settings, from schools to counseling relationships to diplomatic and business negotiations. Rosenberg’s book is easy to read, though it can become repetitive due to the author’s attempts to make all aspects of NVC crystal in clarity. I believe this book would prove less engaging to younger audiences than older audiences, but it is comprehensible and useful to any library patron.
2) This book coincides with all of Beyond War’s core practices. It is especially pertinent to the first two, I will resolve conflict, I will not use violence and I will maintain an attitude of goodwill, I will not preoccupy myself with an enemy. I suggest that Nonviolent Communication be included on the Core List because it not only reinforces Beyond War’s ideals, but provides individuals with the means to put these ideals into practice. For any individual for whom the principles of Beyond War are appealing but daunting, this book is an excellent guide.
3. 1. What aspect(s) of NVC struck you as the most difficult to put into practice? What solutions did Rosenberg offer to these difficulties, or what solutions can you think of?
2. How could communicating nonviolently help Beyond War leaders and members in spreading the ideals of Beyond War to a wider audience?
3. Were there any circumstances that you thought of where NVC seemed a far-fetched means of communicating? What is exceptional about these circumstances? How might NVC be evolved to pertain to such situations?
4. Which relationship(s) on your life could benefit most from nonviolent communication? Do you feel sufficiently equipped after reading Rosenberg’s book to change the way you communicate in these relationships?
5. Consider individuals in your life whom you feel communicate violently. Would you consider sharing Nonviolent Communication with them?
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