Episode 22 - Spiral Dynamics: A Theory about Making Theories

Don Beck joins us to discuss a revolutionary model of human and cultural development called Spiral Dynamics. Originally developed by Professor Claire Graves, Spiral Dynamics is a theory that intends to make sense of the way that people respond and grow in the face of life conditions. Don Beck has been applying this model to a multitude of arenas, especially in business and culture. His most recent work in Israel, with Palestinian leaders, to help alleviate the conflict between the two groups is a perfect example of the way that Spiral Dynamics is being applied.

Also of interest is his work with companies like Southwest Airlines and Wholefoods. Listen in to hear how these companies have managed to apply the insight from Spiral Dynamics into the work place, helping create workplaces with more distributed intelligence (as in the case of Wholefoods) as well flight attendants who are also millionaires (in the cast of Southwest). Also hear about Don's five extra bottom lines (on top of the normal triple bottom-line model).

This is part 1 of two-part series. Listen to part 2, We Need Leadership Not Just Heroic Leaders.

Resources:

- Spiral Dynamics: Mastering Values, Leadership and Change by Don Beck & Christopher Cowan
- Spiral Dynamics Integral
- Global Values Network
- Whole Foods
- Southwest Airlines