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Machiavellianism and Idiosyncratic Deals in Construction Dispute Mediation

Nan Cao, Sai On Cheung*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapters, Conference Papers, Creative and Literary WorksRGC 32 - Refereed conference paper (with host publication)peer-review

Abstract

This study delves into the intricacies in deploying mediation as the primary alternative construction dispute resolution technique before arbitration, with a particular focus on the nuanced interplay among quasi-imposition, Machiavellianism, and the making of idiosyncratic deals (IDs). Mediation is by design a flexible process whereby participating parties can structure their own settlement agreement. Moreover, mediation is now typically quasi-imposed contractually or encouraged by the court. While quasi-imposition encourages attempt of mediation, it may invite the practice of Machiavellianism, a type of manipulative behaviour for personal gain. This study contributes to the construction management literature by explaining the caveats in using quasi-imposition strategy. The conceptualisation of mediated settlement as idiosyncratic deal is also novel in mediation studies. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 18th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction, Volume 3
Subtitle of host publicationEASEC-18, 13–15 November 2024, Chiang Mai, Thailand
EditorsSomnuk Tangtermsirikul, Pennung Warnitchai, Kriengsak Panuwatwanich, Ganchai Tanapornraweekit
Place of PublicationSingapore
PublisherSpringer 
Pages541-548
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)978-981-95-0090-1
ISBN (Print)978-981-95-0089-5, 978-981-95-0092-5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025
Event18th East AsiaPacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction (EASEC-18) - Chiang Mai, Thailand
Duration: 13 Nov 202415 Nov 2024

Publication series

NameLecture Notes in Civil Engineering
Volume726
ISSN (Print)2366-2557
ISSN (Electronic)2366-2565

Conference

Conference18th East AsiaPacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction (EASEC-18)
PlaceThailand
CityChiang Mai
Period13/11/2415/11/24

Research Keywords

  • Construction Dispute Mediation
  • Idiosyncratic Deal
  • Machiavellianism
  • Quasi-imposition

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