They closed philosophy in the ‘80s. that was the warning sign. That was their shot across the bows. Did we really think that there could be a philosophy department again?
Sure, all the higher-ups had changed. Sure, senior management had moved on. No one from that time remained at the university. But there was a legacy of philosophy-suppression at our cherished university. There was a tradition of philosophy-banishment. And we should respect that!
The lesson was clear: not merely that there was nothing special about Philosophy. Nor just that Philosophy was not exempt to university restructuring. Not simply that Philosophy as subject to the same laws, the same rules as other subjects. No: Philosophy had to assume a special humility. A singular abjection. Philosophy had to stand, cap in hand, head bent, to be ready for orders.
And what this will mean for Organisational Management? The risk of disorganised derangement! Of chaotic unmanagement!
Organisational Management could pay a great price agreeing to take us. We should realise that. We should feel grateful that anyone would accept us.
We should remember that Organisational Management aren’t being forced to do this. That Organisational Management volunteered for this.
Organisational Management stood up to be counted. Organisational Management are making a gamble. Taking a punt. There are risks! Obvious risks! But they decided to take us in. And take us on. And bring us round to the Organisational Management way of doing things.
Doubtless lessons will have to be learnt on both sides (especially our side.) Adjustments made (especially our adjustments.) Compromises (our compromises, obviously.) It won’t be straightforward. There’ll be teething problems, probably. Cultural misunderstandings. Misprisions. Inevitably. But if we decide to work together. With a good attitude …
Then a new symbiosis might be possible. A successful grafting of Philosophy onto Organisational Management. Is that the aim?
Work in Progress 