Leading Systems : Lessons from the Power Lab

For over 30 years, Barry Oshry has examined core truths about how we operate in large organizations through the Power Lab, an experiential programme. In this volume, he reveals the lessons he has derived from these experiences. He maintains that the next evolutionary challenge for human beings is to recognize ourselves as systems creatures, see how systems processes shape our experiences, and develop the knowledge and skills to master these processes rather than be victims of them. Drawing on his Power Lab experiences, he reveals the possibilities of systems leadership and how effective leadership can provide the basis for creating sane, healthy, effective social systems. Challenging conventional thinking, Oshry shows the limitations of consensus, the importance of unilateral action, and the restrictions that our values - such as egalitarianism, liberalism and conservatism - can place on power. He reveals how the problems we often believe are personal or peculiar to our system or circumstances are in fact systemic, limiting the possibilities of both individuals and the system as a whole -and he demonstrates what it takes to break out and elevate ourselves and our systems to higher levels of possibility. He sheds light on everything from organizational dysfunction to the conflicts that occur along lines of race, gender, sexual orientation and ethnicity.