Cause, Effect, Choice and Vulnerability

The previous four blogs introduced us to Chris Argyris' Ladder of Inference, an invitation to slow down, notice, and understand the various compartments where we may have boxed in ourselves and others.  The filters, SCRs (socially constructed realities), and selective noticing limit the information we take in and they impact the interactions we have with others.

Our new understanding or awareness extends this invitation. Through curiosity, questions, and dialogue we are invited into compassion for self and other - the ability to "hold lightly" what is said, observed, understood, and felt.  Ever so slowly we move from our cramped cells into an expanded view of the Reality Surrounding by listening to how others experienced and understood the same events.

Nautilus shell with its expanding chambers

Argyris also describes the process many of us use to encounter and problem solve our world, Single-Loop Learning.  This is the "Cause-Effect" method used in our scientifically-minded world.  An example: when it becomes dark, we go to the light switch and turn on the electricity.  Let there be light!

This Cause-Effect method is very efficient and effective.  But oftentimes, we live life on autopilot.  That is, we get used to turning on the light switch when we want light, never looking at other possibilities.  We assume that we can use this same SIngle-Loop Learning method for every situation.  What happens, though, when we come across a more complex situation that isn't so readily solved?

Single-Loop Learning = Cause-Effect Thinking

Slowing down and noticing that our automated re-actions (repeated actions) aren't addressing the situation allows us the possibility that other approaches could be taken.  Reviewing our inner constructs (decisions, meaning, assumptions, and filters) opens new doors.  This is Double-Loop Learning: the ability to learn from what is working and what is not working; and when not working, to review the inner constructs and find new opportunities.

In essence, checking out our assumptions and filters while being in dialogue with others introduces a "choice point" - the ability to respond instead of react, the potential to look at other options and solutions.

Double-Loop Learning = Creating Choice Points

The image that comes to mind is one of the Potter and the Clay: the molding and reforming of an object or image that is in the mind of the Inspired.  The potter's hands become covered with the clay as the intimate and vulnerable process of creation unfolds.  The two cannot be separated from this creative process.

In like manner, the Ladder and Double-Loop Learning produces within us a realization, a moment, to engage one with another in the process of being co-creators.

Creating delicately: drawing forth whom we are to become

 The questions to consider this week:

• Where am I noticing that I have boxed in myself and others?
• When am I on autopilot - anticipating and reacting to the people around me?  What new approaches can I take?
• Will I see and notice the love and compassion that surrounds me - and that I can offer others, especially where we may differ?

 
The invitation this week it to take a risk, become vulnerable, and hold one another with compassion.

Let us turn off the autopilot and experience the Clay-of-Creation! 

 

Larry Gardepie