A Synopsis of Paradoxical Thinking and its Utilization In an Organization

Muzit Mengesha
National University
MGT 605 - Organization Management and Leadership
Professor Carrie Noah
March 1st, 2015

Table of contents

I. Introduction / Definition 3
II. A Company That Demonstrates Paradoxical Thinking 5
III. Can Paradoxical Thinking be learned 7
IV. Paradoxical Thinking, One of Eight Skills Related to Intelligence 8
V. Summary 9
VI. References 10

I. Introduction / Definition
The main purpose of this paper is to define paradoxical thinking and explain its importance and applicability within organizations. After indicating the traditionally utilized cause-and-effect thinking, it will be evident cause-and-effect thinking may not be the best approach to solving managerial problems. After defining and explaining cause-and-effect thinking and posturing the idea cause-and-effect thinking can actually hinder mastery, the idea of paradoxical thinking will be defined and introduced as an alternative approach to solving managerial problems and promoting mastery. Next it will be further explained by examples of organization success from the application of paradoxical thinking and how it has helped the organization’s overall success. Following the explanation of paradoxical thinking, will be a discussion of whether or not paradoxical thinking can be