Lecture on Non-Violent Communication

Giraffe and Jackal Symbols

• Giraffe Symbolism

  • Represents non-violence
  • Giraffes have the largest hearts among land animals, symbolizing the 'language of the heart'

• Jackal Symbolism

  • Represents a language that cuts us off from life
  • Associated with violence and moralistic judgments
  • Termed 'Jackal Language' for its nature to make violence easy and enjoyable
  • Example: TV programs where heroes often engage in violence

Cultural Conditioning

• Violence in Media

  • Children are exposed to violence during prime TV hours (7-9 PM)
  • High percentage of programs feature violent heroes

• Violence as Enjoyable

  • Society educates people to find violence enjoyable
  • Violence is integrated into activities, including parenting

Comparison of Giraffe and Jackal Languages

• Giraffe Language

  • Focuses on non-violence and natural giving
  • Encourages a game of 'making life wonderful'

• Jackal Language

  • Involves moralistic judgments (right/wrong, good/bad)
  • Example: Parents forcing children to apologize insincerely
  • Perpetuates a cycle of violence in personal and cultural interactions
  • Leads to a game of 'who's right'

Process of Moralistic Judgments

• Judgments in Jackal Language
  • Thinking in terms of good/bad, right/wrong, normal/abnormal
  • Exercises on identifying judgments vs. observable behaviors

Transforming Communication

• New Technology for Language
  • Aimed at eliminating perceptions of insults and criticisms
  • Converts all statements to expressions of 'please' and 'thank you'

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Key Takeaways

• Goal is to shift from Jackal (violent, judgmental) to Giraffe (non-violent, empathetic) communication
• Understanding cultural influence on violence can aid in developing non-violent communication skills
• Training provided to never hear insults again, focusing on positive reinterpretation of language