Evolutionary critical theory, metaphor, and organizational change

Aims to consider what the best metaphor or set of metaphors might be in the organizational change process.

A conceptual discussion and approach are taken.

Metaphors have proven to be highly effective aids to understanding the circumstances, clarifying the direction and resolving the problems of organizational change. However, despite their efficacy, there is much debate over what the best metaphor or set of metaphors might be. This paper argues that this uncertainty is resolved by employing Veblen's metaphor of “endogenous evolution”, and that this claim is supported by current studies of organizational change.

The paper is of value to management professionals in helping to develop skills for facing the onset of, and consequences of, the processes of organizational change.