Interpretivism+Larry

 Interpretivism Larry

=Two Early Interpretivists=

I think Weber's //The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism // and Kuhn's //The Structure of Scientific Revolution // are two really great reads. They skillfully respect much of the underlying premise of the interpretivist paradigm (can I use that word?). Both writers take seriously the relationship between ideas and action. Weber sophisticated treatment on the power of religion to shape behavior demonstrate respect for the power of symbols, rituals, etc. Among Kuhn's many contributions is a serious respect for the concept of revolution as it relates to fundamental and complete changes in language and thinking. Kuhn forces us to carefully reconsider the use of revolution or revolutionary when discussing change. Kuhn would probably argue that most change is not revolutionary. It is kind of fun to see these guys pop up in interpetivist writings. It shows a fundamental appreciation for the power of the individual, as opposed to the more collective approach of the postivisits.

= Organizational Decision Making =

The attached article relates to the Milwaukee Public School's superintendent's search. It clearly demonstrates the schizophrenic organizational and philosophical approach being used in the search process. See if you can identify examples of interpretivist and positivist thinking. []

=**Could This Work In Your Organization?**= The following article details an organization that takes the concept of bottom-up organizational approach to its extreme. Can workers objectively evaluate their boss? []

=**Organizational Chaos**= The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) is in the middle of a swirling conflict between the players and the CEO of their organization. The players are a complex combination of independent contractors and employees of the organization and the LPGA essentially runs events, marketing, etc. The players are revolting against the CEO and are calling for her resignation. In reality, though, they (players) don't necessarily have the power to oust the CEO, but given their unhappiness with her leadership, it looks like she will negotiate a settlement and resign. The following are a series of articles detailing the organizational structure and dynamic. There are elements of both positivist and interpretivist thinking in this case. [] [] []

Interpretivism