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Source: http://jcpa.org/article/psychological-asymmetry-understanding-the-gaza-return-demonstrations/
Psychological Asymmetry: Understanding the Gaza "Return" Demonstrations
(Institute for Contemporary Affairs-Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs) Irwin J. Mansdorf, PhD - Psychological asymmetry is the relative advantage of the weaker party in a conflict to engage in otherwise immoral and illegal behavior against a militarily stronger opponent. Hamas and other groups have used their psychological asymmetry in engaging Israel for years, exploiting and placing civilians in danger to meet strategic goals. The current Gaza demonstrations are a prime example of psychological asymmetry being used as a strategic weapon by Hamas. The dilemma faced by Israel is exacerbated by media reports which present morally symmetric descriptions in a situation where asymmetry abounds. The writer is a fellow of the Jerusalem Center and conducts research into the psychological aspects of the Israel-Arab dynamic.