Conflicts enable necessary structural changes and, in doing so, challenge existing patterns of social communication and interpretation in social contexts. New social structures can emerge as a result of social conflicts. Conflicts clarify differences in political programs, they also justify scientific progress. Even when conflicts escalate, efforts can be made to reach a consensus. However, the costs of a conflict increase exponentially as it escalates. Smouldering conflicts also have latent costs. They tie up resources and reduce the efficiency of the systems involved. However, de-escalation can also be cost-intensive, as it can likewise have destructive effects. In the final part of this book, the costs and benefits of conflicts are considered and the need to prevent destructive conflicts is illustrated.