Re: Forming a Group LO2716

Michael McMaster (Michael@kbddean.demon.co.uk)
Sat, 9 Sep 1995 14:50:22 +0000

Replying to LO2710 --

Bill, there is an approach to assumptions that is frequently useful when
dialogue is a significant component. It is an approach that does not look
only at the "positive" assumptions. There are always assumptions and
presuppositions which are unsaid and generally considered to be
"negative". With the approach that you enunciate, I don't see them
becoming part of the dialogue and therefor a significant force will likely
be missed.

> Question: In order to form an environment for dialogue to begin to take
> place what is the minimum number of assumptions that need understanding
> and enrollment. My early thoughts would point toward two:
>
> 1) We all want the project to provide the best result that we can
> produce.
>
> 2) Everyone is acting rationally toward that goal.
>

Are these valid assumptions? At least some of the team is very likely to
either not share these fully or to have contradictory ones even though
they agree with the two assumptions stated.

What about, "I want to look good" or "I have a particular way that I want
some part of this to be done that I've already decided is best"?

A dialogue is not a rational process - it is a process of full human
communication.

-- 
Michael McMaster
Michael@kbddean.demon.co.uk