A Process Turn in Organizational Learning (OL) Theory to Meet Contemporary Challenges: A Critical Review and New Horizons

Purpose – In this paper we explore and discuss organizational learning from a process perspective with the aim of proposing new possibilities for explorations of learning in organizations through the concept of symmathesy.
Design/methodology/approach – As this paper is conceptual, no data has been utilized. Rather, we discuss the opportunities of the concept of symmathesy in relation to organizational learning
Findings – We have found a possibility in broadening the research field of organizational learning through the concept of semmathesy from a strong process orientation. This provides an opportunity for new answers for contemporary challenges in organizations and on a global scale by enriching life- giving processes
Originality/value – We propose a synthesis of organizational learning and the concepts developed by Nora Bateson and proposition of organizational symmathesy. This synthesis can pave the way for a hearth of new understandings and theories of learning in organizational contexts
Key words – Organizational learning, Symmathesy, Warm data, Process philosophy, Strong process orientation, Living systems
Paper type – Conceptual paper