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What is Nonviolent Communication

Nonviolent Communication, also called NVC, a term developed by Marshall Rosenberg in the 1960s, offers a transformative approach to how we interact with others. It prioritizes empathy, honesty, and mutual understanding over criticism, blame, or aggression. At its core, NVC revolves around four key components:

  • Observation: Describing actions or behaviors without judgment.
  • Feelings: Expressing emotions in response to observations.
  • Needs: Identifying underlying human needs or values.
  • Requests: Making clear, actionable requests based on identified needs.

By employing these principles, NVC aims to cultivate compassionate communication, deepen comprehension, and resolve conflicts respectfully. 

New Society Staff member at a rally, holding up a New Society banner

What Nonviolent Communication Means to New Society Publishers

At New Society Publishers, Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is at our core. Originating from our activist roots in 1970s Philadelphia, NVC has shaped our journey as a leading trade publisher. What began with distributing pamphlets on nonviolent civil disobedience at rallies has grown into a robust publishing enterprise dedicated to fostering a fairer, sustainable future.

For over four decades, we’ve championed books that explore nonviolent protest and communication across diverse topics like environmental sustainability, social justice, and personal development. Each publication reflects our values of empathy, honesty, and mutual understanding—essential in today’s complex world.

We believe in the transformative power of words. By publishing works that advocate for nonviolent solutions to social and environmental challenges, we empower individuals and communities to build a more just and equitable society.

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Learn more about nonviolent communication with these resources

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