Harvey, Jerry B. (Summer 1988). Organizational Dynamics.


The Abilene Paradox occurs when members of an organization take an action contrary to what they really want to do and, as a result, defeat the very purposes they are trying to achieve. Organizations caught in the web of the Abilene Paradox lack the ability to manage agreement. This can be expressed by 6 specific sub symptoms: 1. Individuals agree as to the nature of the problem or situation. 2. There is individual agreement as to the steps that should be taken. 3. Organization members fail to communicate their desires and beliefs to one another. 4. Inaccurate and invalid information is then used to make decisions. 5. Everyone is angry, irritated, and frustrated with the. 6. The cycle repeats itself. The cycle may be broken if communication is managed by establishing debates, assigning fact checkers and devil's advocates, and encouraging organizational graffiti. Managing the organization context can enhance power and reduce risk. The creation of the right kind of climate is also essential.