Spiritual themes of the "learning organization"

Authors: Porth, Stephen J; McCall, John; Bausch, Thomas A

Source: Journal of Organizational Change Management, Volume 12, Number 3, 1999 , pp. 211-220(10)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

In the information age, the key to competitive advantage, claim many contemporary management thinkers, is no longer land or capital but knowledge, and specifically the capacity of organizations to acquire knowledge that translates into ongoing organizational innovations. The learning organization is a model of the organizational type that allows the human spirit to flourish so that creativity and innovation are possible. This study examines the characteristics of the learning organization, emphasizing its spiritual themes of employee growth, collaboration, and a sense of community. Points of convergence and divergence between the learning organization model and traditional spiritual understandings of employees and organizations are explored. Learning from these spiritual sources, it is argued, will not only help organizations achieve business objectives, but allow human beings to flourish within organizations.

Keywords: Employee Development; Empowerment; Personal Needs

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/09534819910273883

Publication date: 1999-03-01