Publisher's Synopsis
Interdependence is a fact of life - on all levels of human endeavor. It not only pervades all human relationships, but the whole ecosystem of planet earth. As system analysts like to say, 'Everything is related to everything else'. On the face of it, this is a pretty pedestrian and obvious observation. The challenge comes when we try to manage this web of interdependent relationships. Being interdependent inevitably leads to differences and conflicts.Wars, religious and racial conflicts, white collar crime, street crime and violence, domestic violence, divorce rates, road rage and destructive organizational politics are evidence that sharing resources, space, and our lives are fraught with conflict trigger points. Change complicates the stable state and provides additional trigger points for conflict and challenges the organization's ability to adapt. The old chain of command has developed some weak links and authority-based leadership is no longer seen as effective as it was in less complex environments. Increasingly organizations are focusing on learning-as-you-go as a means to stay vital and thrive rather than just survive.
