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A different outlook on othering

Joan F. Marques (School of Business, Woodbury University, Burbank, California, USA)

Development and Learning in Organizations

ISSN: 1477-7282

Article publication date: 26 January 2021

Issue publication date: 21 July 2021

423

Abstract

Purpose

To encourage those who feel victimized by the tendency of “othering” or being part of an “outgroup” in any organization, in perceiving this reality from a more constructive angle.

Design/methodology/approach

A reflective viewpoint, supported by observations, conversations, and readings.

Findings

Othering exists, but it is a perspective that we can choose as a source of oppression or growth.

Practical implications

Considering the five ideas in this article can assist readers in becoming more resilient and positive members of their work- and other environments.

Social implications

As more people decide to rethink othering, the ridiculousness of the entire tendency may get deposed, and othering may become an obsolete behavioral pattern.

Originality/value

Presenting five ideas pertaining to performance excellence, making a constructive difference, keeping a mindset of elevating rather than defeating perspectives, maintaining dignity, and moving to new horizons. Through these five ideas, the author proposes a constructive perspective to a trend that is usually considered discriminatory and subjugating.

Keywords

Citation

Marques, J.F. (2021), "A different outlook on othering", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 35 No. 5, pp. 1-3. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-10-2020-0209

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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