Woolman's "I am We" Triple-Loop Action-Learning: Origin and Application in Organization Ethics

Abstract

This article interprets within a behavioral science, action-learning theory framework three ethics cases where John Woolman's "I Am We" action-learning method was used. The method looks for the source of current problematic behavior in biases of a shared tradition system rather than simply within individuals; it approaches those involved in a friendly manner, asks for help in deconstructing how behaviors and values might be based on troublesome biases within our tradition, and works together with those who are agreeable to experiment with alternative behaviors that do not rest on the troublesome biases. Relevant aspects of such behavioral science concepts as exit, voice and loyalty, reciprocal interactions, and action-learning are employed and extended. Three cases where the Woolman method was used are presented and interpreted within a behavioral-science-based action-learning framework Strengths and limitations of the method are discussed. A new type of action-learning-triple-loop-is suggested.

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