Introduction to the special issue on quantum management

Abstract

Change and disruption is all around us, with our economic, social, and environmental imperatives currently being turned upside down and governed by paradoxes. . Chaos is replacing (perceived) order, local is replacing global, digital is replacing F2F, digital enhances global, and home is replacing the tourist gaze. This sense of significant disruption means that our models of conventional management are becoming less relevant and we need new perspectives and even ontologies that give insights into emerging forms that may govern a more compassionate future. One such lens challenging our traditional theories is quantum physics. The discovery that the quantum realm is both a subjective and an objective reality opens new possibilities in critiquing the Newtonian-Cartesian-Darwinian belief that organizations ought to be governed by competition and self-interest. Rather, quantum physics shows us that the universe is made of both properties of waves and properties of particles, that is, a sense of inexplicable wholeness and connectedness that is governed through entanglement, potentiality, and indeterminism. A quantum perspective therefore enables us to radically reframe our understanding of reality through eliminating dichotomies. Because quantum relies on our direct-intuitive experience, our personal experiences and practices become central to this shift in awareness. The result of this increase in awareness is to critique how our actions impact on others and on the world, meaning that our quantum leaders and managers are more likely to be agents who focus on enhancing human flourishing and societal well-being. In this special issue, we have contributions from four authors who endeavor to explain and apply this “quantum” way of thinking to organizational management and leadership. All of these contributions acknowledge the role of a spiritual contemplative practice as a direct-intuitive experience; and that the outcome of this results in a wholeness that reduces the self-other dichotomy that potentially has a positive impact on organizations and society. Our special issue begins with a contribution by Chris Lazlo with a discussion on the quantum field and how it sheds light on the power of direct-intuitive practices that may transform a leader’s conscious awareness. Chris argues that this shift in awareness is necessary as, despite enormous contributions to human progress, market-based forprofit businesses generally operate at a significant cost to society. He therefore suggests that practices such as meditation, nature immersion, and countless others are the highest points of leverage for entrepreneurial creativity and innovation. Awareness and contemplative practice leads managers to pursue business as a force for good not only because of