Mediation

/ˌmiː.diˈeɪ.ʃən/ noun

Definition

Mediation is the process in which a neutral person helps people in a dispute communicate and work toward an agreement. It is often used to solve conflicts without going to court.

Etymology

From “mediate” plus the noun-forming suffix “-ion”, indicating an action or process. The root goes back to Latin “medius” meaning 'middle'. The legal and conflict resolution sense grew in the 19th and 20th centuries as formal systems developed.

Kelly Says

Mediation is built on the faith that changing the space between people can change the outcome. Instead of deciding who’s right, a mediator reshapes the conversation itself—the 'medium' becomes the message.

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