Practice Note: “I'm Sorry”, Said ChatGPT: Without a Self and Without Remorse—Useful for Conflict Resolution Nonetheless? A Case Study on Apologies in Mediation

In this case study of a conversation with ChatGPT on the dynamics of apologies in mediation in general – and also about the dynamic of apologies within our conversation – I present my preliminary reflections on the potential and the limitations of using AI as a practitioner and teacher of conflict resolution: Does talking to a chatbot satisfy the expectation of a cognitively interesting (even inspiring) and factually appropriate exchange on a professional level? Does the communication as a process fulfill basic requirements to a useful professional exchange? From the analysis of this case and based on excerpts of the exchange, it seems reasonable to expect the possibility of a fairly meaningful and interesting exchange on relevant professional topics in conflict resolution – as long as one is willing and able to apply what I would term the “Triple P in dealing with ChatGPT”: Precision, proficiency, and perseverance.