Definitions
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Unitarist
Pluralist
All definitions
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The "unitarist"-versus-"pluralist" distinction refers to whether important organizational goals are shared among stakeholders and stakeholder groups. Surfacing unitarist-versus-pluralist assumptions is relevant when planning, implementing and evaluating change initiatives.
Unitarist From a "unitarist" perspective (set forth, for example, in mission statements), the underlying assumption is that individuals and various groups (stakeholders) within the organization share the same goals. Such a view does not, however, acknowledge that the goals of the organization may be in conflict with personal or group goals (Davey, 2003). It does not acknowledge levels of analysis or issues of power or politics. Pluralist A "pluralist" perspective, however, does acknowledge that stakeholders and stakeholder groups within (and without) the organization may have conflicting goals. In fact, pluralist approaches to organizational change not only recognize this conflict, they may view it as desirable (Davey, 2003) in helping to reconcile or offset the negative consequences of competing interests. Related terms: Resistance, organization, change, power, politics References Davey, K. (2003). Organizational change. Birkbeck University of London. Read a practice essay in response to:
"Employees are not just passive recipients of organisational policy but have an active, if limited, role in shaping it: Discuss the processes through which individuals and groups might try to exert influence on change in organizations." Exam essay practice answer |
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