Savola, Pat

Description

Introduction I am primarily a pragmatist; I did not go looking for theory for its own sake. I developed comprehensive theory as I experienced the need to integrate my more than thirty years of diverse work, education, and experience. I generated an inclusive theoretical framework in order to contain many working models, and make room for new ones that I know will inevitably arise. I have theory that includes teaching; business management and leadership; and the practice of psychotherapy, including its margins - dissociative disorders. This theory incorporates my background in natural sciences, forestry, and industry; and encompasses broader notions of "work" and the work of work, or "meta-work." This theory is congruent with the practice of mindfulness, classical Buddhist teachings and my own life. "If you're going to have a theory, you may as well have a good one." -anonymous Theory is important. A theoretical perspective shapes what we see, how we see, and how we understand the world. But theory is not Truth; it is merely a window through which we view the world, for better or worse. [The] argument proceeds by noting that facts exist independent of theories and to the extent that theories constrain our search for facts, particularly facts with which existing theories do not concur, then theories and methods built on these theories necessarily get in the way of learning about the world, and thus do not enhance our ability to know at all. (Goldberg p. 163.) I have had numerous experiences where the facts did not concur with their theories. While frustrating to the point of bewilderment, they forced me to rigorous thinking about theory, and exacting scrutiny to reveal the logical flaws which dissatisfied me. A theory might be discarded, modified for inclusion, or simply retained as a technique. Non-concurring facts moved from the periphery to the centre of my psyche. I am reminded of Robert Openheimer's statement, "The business of science is to prove itself wrong." Unfolding in front of me was meta-theory which necessarily welcomed wrongness. It is theory with the possibility of expansion, with the potential for change. It is theory which includes the Unknown. And, practically, it is theory that I apply in my work with individuals, groups, organizations, boards and communities. It is theory congruent with the practice of mindfulness. My theoretical web applies across ecological, psychological, managerial, Buddhist, and personal realms. It consists of five topics, each of which contains aspects which appear in the others

Products & services

Similar companies nearby