Nature of Intractability

This is a diverse set of comments, but the all relate to the fundamental question of why some conflicts are so much more difficult to resolve than others are.
 
Louis Kriesberg explains his answer to the common question "Well, what would you do NOW?"
Peter Coleman discusses different types of intractable conflicts.
Sanda Kaufman explains that even the best conflict resolution processes may not work in intractable conflicts.
Frank Blechman believes the biggest obstacles for conflict intervenors are cynicism and lack of hope.
Elise Boulding says "Intractable conflicts are less so if one envisions a way out."
Pamela Aall, of the U.S. Institute of Peace, discusses the disagreement among scholars and practitioners regarding a definition of "intractability."