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Fundamentalism and Panaceas

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Abstract

Fundamentalism is a response to an environment that is undergoing an accelerating rate of change and rapidly increasing complexity. These two conditions combine to produce what is generally referred to as a "turbulent" or "chaotic" environment. Such an environment is characterized by discontinuities and uncertainty, hence unpredictability. It is one in which it is easy for individuals and organizations to become disorientated. Fundamentalism is a defensive response that avoids disorientation but replaces it with something worse. Panaceas proness is a moderate form of fundamentalism.

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Ackoff, R.L. Fundamentalism and Panaceas. Systemic Practice and Action Research 14, 3–10 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1009527509074

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1009527509074

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