Mediation and Paternalism
Abstract
The article addresses the issue of paternalistic notions in mediation. It focuses on the theoretical aspects of the problem and does not discuss the practice of mediation. The study presents some current views on paternalism, including the so-called new paternalism developed in modern economics. Then, three key styles of mediation are analyzed with particular reference to the concept of paternalism. The study demonstrates that the theoretical assumptions underlying mediation can be seen as paternalistic, which, however, does not mean that the parties involved in mediation are coerced into specific decisions. A mediator is a figure of epistemic superiority who acts for the benefit of the parties. He affects the circumstances of the parties’ choices, considering their good and the fairness of the process. To limit possible risks of harmful paternalism, the informative duty should be satisfied.
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17951/adr.2026.1.97-113
Date of publication: 2026-08-12 00:12:57
Date of submission: 2025-12-23 10:20:26
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