CLANTHINK
| Collection | International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics |
|---|---|
| Year | 2004 |
| Vol. (num.) | 2(1) |
| ID | ◀ 445 ▶ |
| Object type | General information, Human sciences |
- “An incorrect view held by all or almost all members of the group about something other than the complex issue being considered” (J. WARFIELD, 1994b, p.490).
Clanthink views are considered “obvious” by those who hold them. They frequently remain implicit and are never submitted to critical evaluation. This is one basic cause of so-called “underconceptualization” and blindspots, leading ultimately to unsound decisions and possible disasters.
Clanthink is particularly dangerous in international politics
WARFIELD comments: “Clanthink peaks when authority rather than exploration of logic drives activity. It is generally easily exposed when, in the questioning processes used, inconsistencies begin to appear in dialog, causing the group to make discoveries that are counter to what previously believed” (1995a, p.65,6).
In many cases, action based on clanthink is officially supported by the group, but can be covertly sabotaged by unconvinced hidden opponents. It also may face strong opposition from stakeholders who were not consulted (in some cases because they were suspected of not sharing the clan's views).