Spiral Dynamics and E-C theory, multiple explanations
Rather than just regurgitating material that is already published, I have decided to have some fun and am to try and explain what E-C theory is from each of the different values systems within the theory. When approaching clients I have to be able to explain the theory and I have to do it in a way that they will comprehend. A large part of this is finding the language of their values and then explaining it as best I can.
I am going to start with a B-O explanation. Which I have never had to do, as B-O as a dominant system simply does not really exist in the modern world. It is going to be a challenge and I will have to use a little creative licence.
Don’t worry if you don’t know what ‘value systems’ or the different letter pairs mean yet, that will come clear in time. It might be interesting for you to note down your response to each description, e.g. a) how much do you like/dislike the sound of it. b) did you have trouble wrapping your head around it. c) after reading it, how well could you explain it to someone else. I’ll be very surprised if you relate strongly to B-O, and I won’t be surprised if you wonder what I’m on about, stick with it and come back to this system later if it makes no sense to you now.
Important note: All of these different descriptions are biased and stereotyped towards one particular expression of the value system being expressed. They are not necessarily representative, I have to some extent purposefully veered away from the more common stereotypes – but all the expressions are still stereotypes. This will become clearer in the later value systems. These systems do not really exist, they are simply artefacts of the theory and the manner in which our minds latch onto information to make sense of it. There are many contradictions from one description to another. This is on purpose to highlight some of the contradictions within the theory; take all factoids with a pinch of salt and try to let the overall picture of the theory settle in.
(edited 22/05/08 – added important note)
Tags: B-O, E-C Theory, ECLET, purple, Spiral Dynamics