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What is paradox in the context of organizational studies?
What is paradox in the context of organizational studies?
Contradictory yet interrelated elements that seem logical in isolation but absurd when appearing simultaneously.
What aspects does the article suggest paradox can help researchers explore?
What aspects does the article suggest paradox can help researchers explore?
The article claims that using the term 'paradox' has been overused and underspecified.
The article claims that using the term 'paradox' has been overused and underspecified.
True
What are the fundamental questions researchers need to answer about paradox?
What are the fundamental questions researchers need to answer about paradox?
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Which researchers claimed that exploring paradox might help move beyond oversimplified notions?
Which researchers claimed that exploring paradox might help move beyond oversimplified notions?
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According to the article, managers are asked to balance which of the following contradictory aspects?
According to the article, managers are asked to balance which of the following contradictory aspects?
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Study Notes
Paradox in Organizational Studies
- The term "paradox" is increasingly used in organizational studies to describe conflicting demands, opposing perspectives, and seemingly illogical findings.
- While paradox is often used to label these occurrences, it's crucial to move beyond simple labeling and explore how paradoxes can offer valuable insights into organizational complexity and ambiguity.
- Paradoxes highlight the inherent contradictions and complexities within organizations, challenging traditional views of organizational dynamics.
- Researchers are starting to recognize that change is not a smooth, linear process, but rather a complex and often paradoxical journey.
- By examining the tensions and reinforcing cycles within organizations, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how contradictions both hinder and encourage organizational development.
- The study of paradox allows researchers to move beyond simplified and polarized notions and recognize the complexity, diversity, and ambiguity inherent in organizational life.
- Paradoxes can serve as a powerful framework for examining the impacts of plurality and change, aiding in understanding divergent perspectives and disrupting experiences.
- Managers increasingly face paradoxical demands in today's business environment, such as the need to increase efficiency while fostering creativity, build individualistic teams while thinking globally, and act locally.
- The prevalence of paradox in management challenges traditional theories and points to the limitations of oppositional thinking.
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Description
This quiz explores the concept of paradox in organizational studies, focusing on its implications for understanding complex organizational dynamics. It delves into the conflicting demands and inherent contradictions that characterize organizations, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to change and development. Participants will gain insights into how paradoxes can hinder and foster organizational growth.