Complexity and Values LO8616

John Paul Fullerton (jpf@mail.myriad.net)
Tue, 23 Jul 1996 00:32:58 +0000

Replying to LO8610 --

Ben said

> > Let's see if we can find a few values that those who participate
> > on this list would agree to.

> > I'll start by proposing what I hope are obvious choices: We all
> > value learning and diversity.

The idea of "diversity" doesn't immediately warm my heart. Often, there is
conflict with different cultures, or there can be. That doesn't mean "shut
other people out" (to me), yet it doesn't make diversity something I would
particularly hope for. I understand that diverse team members provide more
options and a more diverse view. And if the alternative to diversity is
being left out, being thought of as less or being hurt, then I suppose
we'd have to accept diversity.

Joan said

> Sounds like a good idea. I would like to propose that we also look
> at a definition of the word.
>
> My dictionary says "that quality of a thing which makes it more or
> less desirable, useful, etc." Rol previously gave a dictionary
> definition making a value an act. I would rather use the "quality of
> a thing" definition and await the opinion of others.

We could (possibly) go a little bit further and call these "qualities"
properties. Think of the non-emotional discussion of the interaction of
objects. "What properties does the gear need to be able to supply a
continuous torque of X?" "What properties will the roller bearing conveyor
need to move X hoppers a day?" Endurance, low friction output, heat
tolerance, non-adhering. When we're talking about properties of behavior,
the concepts can quickly transfer. It makes it more evident that there are
benefits to be gained through certain types of behavior and that
particular processes may only be possible through certain types of
behavior.

> Using "quality of a thing which --", I would propose the following
> as commonly held values: fairness, forgiveness, compassion,
> knowledge, honesty, love, enthusiasm, industriousness, quality,
> confidence, trust, humility, courtesy, perseverance, attitude and
> admission of error. I choose these because everyone wants others to
> act toward themselves in accordance with these values and each of us
> dislikes being treated to their opposites such as with arrogance
> rather than humility or with discourtesy rather than courtesy.

These "qualities" seem to have a kinship with religious values, and that's
OK with me (I'm a Christian). However - given that people may not base
values on religious belief, it might be worth thinking of these qualities
more OBJECTively, as mentioned earlier, if there is a way to do that.

On the other hand, adding to the list, how about adding kindness,
usefulness, and acknowledgement of another's knowledge.

Another comment about the listed values, though they be valuable and
appreciated, where are they commonly practiced?

Have a nice day
John Paul Fullerton
jpf@myriad.net

-- 

"John Paul Fullerton" <jpf@mail.myriad.net>

Learning-org -- An Internet Dialog on Learning Organizations For info: <rkarash@karash.com> -or- <http://world.std.com/~lo/>