Triple-loop learning as foundation for profound change, individual cultivation, and radical innovation: Construction processes beyond scientific and rational knowledge

Abstract

Purpose: Ernst von Glasersfeld’s question concerning the relationship between scientific/ \nrational knowledge and the domain of wisdom and how these forms of knowledge come \nabout is the starting point. This article aims at developing an epistemological as well as \nmethodological framework that is capable of explaining how profound change can be \nbrought about in various contexts, such as in individual cultivation, in organizations, in \nprocesses of radical innovation, etc. This framework is based on the triple-loop learning \nstrategy and the U-theory approach, which opens up a perspective on how the domains of \nscientific/rational knowledge, constructivism, and wisdom could grow together more \nclosely. Design/Structure: This article develops a strategy which is referred to as “tripleloop \nlearning,” which is not only the basis for processes of profound change, but also brings \nabout a new dimension in the field of learning and knowledge dynamics: the existential \nrealm and the domain of wisdom. A concrete approach that puts into practice the tripleloop \nlearning strategy is presented. The final section shows, how these concepts can be \ninterpreted in the context of the constructivist approach and how they might offer some \nextensions to this paradigm. Findings: The process of learning and change has to be \nextended to a domain that concerns existential issues as well as questions of wisdom. \nProfound change can only happen if these domains are taken into consideration. The tripleloop \nlearning strategy offers a model that fulfills this criterion. It is an “epistemo-existential \nstrategy” for profound change on various levels. Conclusions: The (cognitive) processes \nand attitudes of receptivity, suspension, redirecting, openness, deep knowing, as well as \n“profound change/innovation from the interior” turn out to be core concepts in this process. \nThey are compatible with constructivist concepts. Von Glasersfeld’s concept of functional \nfitness is carried to an extreme in the suggested approach of profound change and \nfinds an extension in the existential domain. Key words: Double-loop learning, individual \ncultivation, (radical) innovation, knowledge creation, knowledge society, personality development, \npresencing, profound change, triple-loop learning, U-theory, wisdom.

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