The Mediator as Cook: Mediation Metaphors at the Movies

Abstract

In this article, the author explores the vitality of the metaphor of the mediator as cook by tracing it through food and conflict resolution related films. The metaphor resonates in popular culture, and suggests new insights about mediator style and practice. More than one conflict resolution film supports the claims that: (i) mediation need not be voluntary to be sound; (ii) mediators can be partial, directive, and evaluative and still be effective by individualising their approaches to each disputant and dispute; and (iii) an approach to mediation that embraces emotion is to be celebrated and can produce pleasure. When the metaphor of the mediator as cook is traced through film, it enables description of at least five mediation styles: a deceptive mediation style; a magical style; an instinctual style; a scientific or precise style; and a co-mediation style.