Paradox in Organizational Studies
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Questions and Answers

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?

  • Complexity
  • Diversity
  • Ambiguity
  • All of the above (correct)

The article claims that using the term 'paradox' has been overused and underspecified.

True (A)

What are the fundamental questions researchers need to answer about paradox?

<p>What is paradox? How might it serve as a framework? How might researchers actively seek out paradox?</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which researchers claimed that exploring paradox might help move beyond oversimplified notions?

<p>Cameron and Quinn</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the article, managers are asked to balance which of the following contradictory aspects?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Organizational Paradox

Contradictory but interconnected elements that seem logical individually, yet absurd together.

Paradox Research Areas

Insights into organizational behaviors, structures, and outcomes that are complex, contradictory, and require deeper investigation.

Overused Paradox Term

The term 'paradox' in organizational studies has been used too broadly and not defined clearly enough.

Paradox Research Questions

Critical inquiries regarding paradox, such as its definition, framework applicability, and active exploration strategies.

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Paradox Researchers

Cameron and Quinn are researchers who advocate for exploring paradox to move beyond simplified views.

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Managerial Paradox

Balancing seemingly contradictory aspects in management, such as efficiency and innovation, or employee well-being versus profit.

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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.

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