Understanding Human Values through Integrative Dialogue: The Śāstrārtha Method

Abstract

In an organisational context, we find numerous expressions of human values. A key expression of such values is in communication, both formal and informal. It can be assumed that forms of communication that integrate stakeholders’ perspectives and purposes will result in integrative or coherent outcomes. One such integrative communication method inspired by Bhāratīya culture (Ancient Indian culture) is the method of Śāstrārtha (also called Vāda-kathā). Śāstrārtha is an approach to communication where the process of reconciling different positions happens naturally because the aim is to understand the truth through dialogue, and where the result is transformational thinking. Such a method can have applications in action research because of its transformational potential. This chapter outlines the fundamentals of the approach and its implications for applying human values in a management context. In addition, it applies the theory of proper argumentation (Paṃcāvayava Prakriyā) to several perspectives on human values in organisations. It explains how the means to gain right knowledge (Pramāṇas) and the process of logical reasoning (Tarka) are used by participants in a process of dialogue that employs the Śāstrārtha approach. Śāstrārthas stress the importance of collective thinking and allow space for both objective and subjective realities, because they focus on intellect and wisdom. The Śāstrārtha approach may be considered as a method that includes both ‘doing’ (a materialistic focus) and ‘becoming’ (a spiritual focus), and for considering values not as ends but as means to achieving higher purposes in organisations. © The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2022.