Final answer:
Changed relations between conflicting groups refer to polarization and communication breakdown, which occur when internal cohesion of groups increases alongside growing suspicion and distrust towards other groups, leading to challenges in democracy and policymaking.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changed Relations between Conflicting Groups
The dynamics of 'changed relations between conflicting groups' often involve the process of polarization, where groups diverge on issues, increasing internal cohesion while fostering suspicion and distrust across opposing groups. This can subsequently lead to a communication breakdown, posing significant challenges for democracy and complicating conflict resolution efforts. Polarization has been observed globally and is particularly noticeable in the United States, where political parties have become increasingly distinct in their ideologies, leading to sharper divisions in Congress and within society at large.
Even though there are emerging benefits like clear choices for voters and competitive elections indicating a healthy democracy, the cost is often increased friction in policymaking and a decline in moderate voices. Despite these tendencies toward division, mechanisms like empathy, mutual acknowledgment of past suffering, and cessation of destructive behaviors can help bridge the gap and foster dialogue and reconciliation between polarized groups.