Sustainability, Economics, and Ethics (SEE)
Applications of anthropological perspectives and methods on organizational studies
The presentation explores the contributions and implications of applying anthropological perspectives and methods in organizational studies. It examines the evolution of anthropology from its traditional focus on »exotic« cultures to its modern application in familiar societal and organizational issues. Highlighting the discipline's holistic and contextual approach, the presentation demonstrates how anthropology provides a nuanced understanding of organizational dynamics, cultural diversity, and human behavior.
Key insights include the use of ethnographic methods, such as participant observation and qualitative analysis, to uncover hidden organizational patterns and social silences. The application of anthropology to organizational studies is exemplified through case studies in educational settings, workplace dynamics (e.g., »quiet quitting«), and AI integration in Higher educational settings. These examples illustrate how anthropology enhances organizational practices by addressing root causes of disengagement, fostering inclusivity, and promoting ethical and sustainable approaches to innovation.
The presentation is based on Molek's research. It has also delved into specific phenomena, such as the interplay between hero culture and silo mentality, revealing how individual-focused organizational cultures can hinder collaboration and efficiency. In the context of AI, anthropology sheds light on emerging practices and perceptions in higher education and the vacation rental market, emphasizing ethical challenges like centralized and monopolistic production of innovation, data privacy, accountabiliy and algorithmic bias.
This study underscores the value of anthropology's empathetic, critical, and context-aware perspective in improving organizational culture, product development, and policy-making. Anthropology may contribute to fostering socially responsible, inclusive, and innovative organizations in an increasingly complex and globalized world.