ABSTRACT
Thomas Jefferson’s caveat “in a state of civilization” reminds us that civilized societies talk through their problems, attempting to find a factual basis for coming to agreement. Each of us may not reach all of our goals, but if logic and/or facts stand behind a particular option, we have hope of securing more than we might have through physical conflict or lack of agreement. The promise of progress exerts considerable pressure to move forward toward an acceptable decision. Talking is a good sign that not all is lost. Those willing to prolong negotiation stave off failure and the physical conflict or disenchantment that could follow.
