Propositional logic, paradox, and Indian dialectics – towards a deeper ontological approach in paradox theory

Abstract

The article responds to the call of organizational paradox theorists to explore the added value of eastern principles of thought as a basis for a better understanding of the treatment of contradictory opposites in organisations. Drawing on prior work in systems theory, it presents a logical analysis of paradox based on the Catuṣkoṭi or Tetralemma discussed in Madhyamika Buddhism. Unlike its predecessors, the article reads the Tetralemma as an expression of a gradual process of detachment from the subject matter in question, resulting from a change of perspective. On this basis, the article is able to distinguish two different accounts of paradox in organisations, one resulting from excess determinacy and the other resulting from a lack of determinacy. For organisational practice, this means that the perception of and attitude towards values, routines, strategy or identity needs more attention in the study of paradox, which Indian dialectics might facilitate.