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Assumptions Matter

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Abstract

Who and why? This chapter sets out the second stage of the five-stage Adaptive Learning Pathway for Systemic Leadership, which focuses on cultivating awareness of tacit assumptions, how to handle them, and how to consider what ought to happen. There are four suggested resources signposted for thinking about assumptions, which is also a more inclusive approach (hence, who and why?). These include: use of metaphor, boundary critique, Critical Systems Heuristics and Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing. Each signposted approach is presented in a standard format which includes a brief history, what’s involved, an example of application and a pointer towards further resources. The operational principle for considering assumptions is critical appraisal: the chapter concludes with the associated key facet of systemic leadership for this principle.

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Hobbs, C. (2019). Assumptions Matter. In: Systemic Leadership for Local Governance. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-08280-2_3

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