Abstract
Social systems and organizational behavior mimic natural systems relating to conflict responses and management. This paper highlights how organizational conflicts are similar to conflicts found in natural systems and that as organizations develop their understanding of biological relationships, they can improve their organizational conflict management. Though some obvious comparisons exist (such as fight or flight), the exploration of symbiosis in natural systems can help better manage established relationships in and between social systems by improving organizational conflict resolution strategies. This research supports the field of organizational behavior by applying conflict resolution theories to concepts of ecology. Qualitative literature review was used to compare natural and social systems relating to conflict theory. Published research examining natural systems functions and interactions between organisms was analyzed to reconceptualize social system approaches to conflict resolution. Similarities exist, yet often go overlooked, between conflict resolution tendencies produced by both natural and social systems. Combining the understanding of natural systems with conflict resolution theory, organizations would be better prepared to address and manage conflict.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2022 Special Focus—Organizational Memetics: Nature-Centered Perspectives on Organizations
KEYWORDS
Organizational Behavior, Conflict Resolution, Systems Theory, Symbiosis, Ecology
