Emerging perspectives

Question 1

Emerging perspectives

Answer 1

Complex adaptive systems

… 4 properties

… 4 bedrock principles

Impact of complexity theory

Discourse

Critical management theory

Question 2

Complex adaptive systems

Answer 2

Organic

• birds / bacteria / orgs
• co-evolving with environment

Alt

• mechanical (central heating)
• rational models of strategy

Question 3

Four properties of complex adaptive systems

Answer 3

PASCALE’s four properties of compex adaptive systems

1. comprised of many agents
2. have multiple layers and levels
3. subject to entropy
4. ability to recognise or sense patterns

Question 4

Four bedrock principles of complex adaptive systems

Answer 4

PASCALE’s four bedrock principles of complex adaptive systems

1. equilibrium is a precursor to death
2. complex adaptive systems have the capacity to organise themselves and generate more complexity
3. complex adaptive systems tend to move towards the edge of chaos
4. can’t direct a living system, only disturb it

Question 5

Impact of compexity theory

Answer 5

natural sciences > economics > consumer behaviour

Question 6

Discourse

Answer 6

Story

• linguistic turn
• Prof Jay Conger (airline competition = cars)

Narrative

• authority/legitimacy

Practice

• what strategists actually do

Power

• power over (authority)
• power to (legitimacy)

Question 7

Critical management theory

Answer 7

Questions management as discipline

Knowledge of/for

Criticisms - ALVESSON & WILMOTT

• objections to the colonising effect of strategic talk
• concerns about effects of industry concentration as the result of strategic mergers
• plea for more democracy in organisation strategy making