Engaging with the unknowable through narratives of personal experience

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the potential function of narratives of personal experience in engaging with unknowable reality.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on research on managers working with the unknown using narrative methods together with ancient and modern theories of knowing.

Findings

It is suggested that the unknowable is of importance to the leader of change and that narrative is a productive form of engagement with unknowable reality. Implications for leadership practice are identified.

Originality/value

The role of narrative alongside a largely forgotten form of understanding, intellectus, is considered.

Citation

Simpson, P. (2010), "Engaging with the unknowable through narratives of personal experience", Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 173-179. https://doi.org/10.1108/09534811011031355