At 08:50 PM 18/07/99 -0500, you wrote:
>You and I might both want to be the next Michael Jordan--the reality is
>that there are some basic physiological things that will inhibit me on
>this one. Try and try as I might, I do not have the unique "blend" of
>stuff that make him have the talents that he has. Desire and practice
>alone just don't cut it.
I'm not sure that this analogy really fits. If I wanted to be an NBA
basketball professional, I wouldn't necessarily have to be a Michael
Jordan. If I want to be a leader, I don't have to be the best one I
already know.
>Take a look at some of Jaques' works: The Requisite Organization, Jaques
>and Cason's Human Capability, Jaques & Clement, Executive Leadership. Can
>order from Cason Hall & Co. It's pretty controversial because it is
>somewhat deterministic. So's life.
There are, of course, results of action and results of fundamental forces
of nature. We all inherit them. We also make choices today that create
results in the future.
I give Jaques a mixed review. I think he underestimates just how much
thinking is a skill that can be taught and improved. My in-field
experience shows it is pretty substantial given the right tools and a
learning-by-doing approach.
I'd suggest adding Tony Buzan, Edward de Bono and the Buddha to your
reading list ahead of reviewing Jaques. You just might see him in a
different light.
--------
Jason Smith
Agility Designer
pax@interlog.com
http://www.organizationalagility.com
"growing your profits. faster. sustainably."
--Jason Smith <pax@interlog.com>
Learning-org -- Hosted by Rick Karash <rkarash@karash.com> Public Dialog on Learning Organizations -- <http://www.learning-org.com>