The Collective Unconscious at the Organizational Level: The Manifestation of Organizational Symbols

Abstract

In this research we articulate the concept of collective unconscious at the organizational level and propose a framework based on the organizational symbolism literature regarding the sources and manifestations of the collective unconscious construct. We first present the collective unconscious from the lens of analytical psychology and suggest a theoretical link with organization science in order to develop an understanding regarding what does collective unconscious indicate at the organizational context. Then we draw on the organizational symbols literature to explore the sources and manifestations of collective unconscious in the organization. Particularly this research generates an integrative framework between organization science and analytical psychology. It suggests that stories told regarding the processes and relationships of the organization, the metaphors generated to develop and enhance meaning and common language serving to communicate meaning throughout the organizations are the sources where collective unconscious is preserved and manifested through the usage of these symbols. This research is important for theory and practice in two aspect. First this research provides a basis to explain organizational phenomena which cannot be explained through the conventional positivist/functionalist school of thought. Second it encourages organizational scholars to not only focus on the visible but also invisible, hidden aspects of organizational life such as the unconsciousness at the organizational level which is critical in determining the behavior of organizations. (C) 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.