Abstract
This research paper delves into the significance of understanding and visualising collective identity and shared values within human systems, such as organisations and urban places. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks like Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model, the study explores the crucial aspects and underlying values that shape collective identity. It emphasises the limitations of traditional approaches in comprehending these abstract concepts and highlights the need for innovative visualisation techniques to make them more tangible and accessible.
Introducing the ValueMaps framework as a research-based model, the paper proposes its integration into the research study. The ValueMaps framework provides a structured approach to comprehend the interplay of individual and group values within a larger social context. By visualising and mapping these values, researchers can gain deeper insights into their influence on decision-making processes and social dynamics.
The research highlights the potential of innovative visualisation techniques that incorporate visual and experiential elements to enhance understanding and engagement. These techniques, including interactive maps, graphs, and serious play, offer inspiring experiences that enable individuals to interact with and explore collective identity and shared values.
Possible gaps for further discussion are identified, including methodological considerations, ethical and cultural nuances, long-term impact and sustainability, and user-centered design and engagement. Addressing these gaps in future research will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding and practical application of visualisation approaches.
Overall, this research paper underscores the importance of innovative visualisation techniques in comprehending and communicating collective identity and shared values. By incorporating theoretical frameworks and the ValueMaps framework, researchers can advance the understanding of these concepts, ultimately contributing to the development of inclusive and thriving human systems.
Literature review
The Importance of Collective Identity and Shared Values
This literature review examines the significance of collective identity and shared values in human systems. It explores the theoretical framework of the Iceberg Model, Goffman's theory, social constructionism, and Jung's archetypes. By synthesising research from various disciplines, this review highlights the fundamental role of collective identity and shared values in shaping individual and group behaviors, social cohesion, and the formation of meaningful communities.
Introduction
Collective identity and shared values play a crucial role in organisations and societies, influencing the behavior, beliefs, and interactions of individuals within a group. This literature review aims to explore the theoretical frameworks and concepts that underpin the importance of collective identity and shared values, drawing upon the Iceberg Model, Goffman's theory, social constructionism, and Jung's archetypes.
The Iceberg Model
The Iceberg Model provides a useful framework for understanding the layers of collective identity. It assumes that the visible aspects, such as language, customs, and clothing, represent the surface level, while the deeper, less visible aspects include shared beliefs, values, and worldview (Schein, 2010). This model highlights the significance of exploring the underlying elements that contribute to collective identity formation.
Goffman's Theory
Erving Goffman's theory of social interaction emphasizes the role of shared values in shaping individual behavior within social contexts. Goffman argues that individuals perform their roles based on socially constructed norms and expectations, known as 'dramaturgy' (Goffman, 1959). This perspective underscores the influence of collective identity and shared values on interpersonal interactions and social order.
Social Constructionism
Social constructionism posits that collective identity and shared values are socially constructed and influenced by cultural, historical, and contextual factors. It emphasises that meaning and identity are not inherent but rather shaped through social processes (Berger & Luckmann, 1966). This perspective challenges the notion of fixed identities and recognises the importance of shared understandings in forming collective identity.
Jung's Archetypes
Carl Jung's concept of archetypes suggests that humans share universal symbols and patterns of behavior that are rooted in the collective unconscious. Archetypes, such as the master, the searcher, and the seer, shape individuals' perceptions, values, and behaviors, contributing to the formation of collective identity (Jung, 1968). Understanding archetypes provides insights into the shared values and narratives that unite groups.
Implications and Applications
Collective identity and shared values have significant implications for various aspects of society. They foster social cohesion, promote cooperation, and contribute to the formation of meaningful communities. Understanding the dynamics of collective identity and shared values is vital in diverse domains, including intergroup relations, organisational culture, and societal identity.
Conclusion
This literature review highlights the importance of collective identity and shared values in shaping individual and group behaviors. The Iceberg Model, Goffman's theory, social constructionism, and Jung's archetypes offer valuable theoretical frameworks for understanding the formation and dynamics of collective identity. Recognising and studying these concepts can lead to a better understanding of social dynamics, group cohesion, and the development of harmonious societies.
Theoretical Model
This research paper explores the dynamics of collective identity and shared values within organisations and societies. To clarify these complex phenomena, two theoretical models will be employed: Erving Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model. By integrating these frameworks, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of how individuals present themselves in social contexts and the underlying layers of collective identity.
Erving Goffman's theory of social interaction provides a unique lens through which to examine the construction of social identities. Goffman conceptualises social interactions as theatrical performances, where individuals assume specific roles and engage in impression management to shape the perceptions of others. This theory highlights the strategies individuals employ to control the impressions they give off and the ways in which they navigate social expectations (Goffman, 1959). By drawing on Goffman's theory, we can explore how collective identity is constructed through the interplay of individual performances and the management of impressions.
Figure 1 - Erving Goffman's theory of social interaction
Complementing Goffman's theory, the Iceberg model offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the layers of collective identity. Framed by Schein (2010), the Iceberg model posits that the visible aspects of culture, such as language, customs, and clothing, represent the surface level. However, beneath this surface lie deeper, less visible aspects that include shared beliefs, values, and worldviews. This model emphasizes the need to explore the underlying elements that contribute to the formation of collective identity (Schein, 2010). By utilising the Iceberg model, we can delve into the deeper layers of collective identity and understand how shared values shape group behaviors and interactions.
Figure 2 - Iceberg model (updated)
By incorporating Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model, this research paper seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of collective identity and shared values. Goffman's framework enables us to explore the performative aspects of social interactions and the influence of impression management on collective identity. Meanwhile, the Iceberg model allows us to delve into the underlying values and beliefs that contribute to the formation and maintenance of collective identity.
References:
Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Doubleday Anchor Books.
Schein, E. H. (2010). Organisational Culture and Leadership.
Knowledge Gap
In the study of human systems, such as organisations and urban spaces, understanding collective identity and shared values is essential for fostering cohesion, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. However, there exists a knowledge gap, a missing approach that can effectively visualise and make tangible these abstract concepts. This gap hinders our ability to grasp the complex dynamics of collective identity and shared values, limiting our capacity to cultivate inclusive and thriving human systems.
Collective identity and shared values are often intangible, existing within the minds and experiences of individuals who form these systems. While they play a fundamental role in shaping behaviors and interactions, capturing and representing them in a tangible manner has proven challenging. Traditional methods, such as surveys or interviews, provide valuable insights, but they lack the visual and empirical elements necessary to fully comprehend the nuances of collective identity and shared values.
To bridge this knowledge gap, there is a pressing need for innovative approaches that can make collective identity and shared values more accessible, tangible, and visually comprehensible. Such approaches could enable individuals to see, experience, and engage with these concepts in a more inviting and intuitive manner.
One potential pathway is the use of visualisations, which can provide a means to represent complex information in a visually appealing and understandable format. Visualisations have the power to synthesise and present multiple dimensions of collective identity and shared values, revealing patterns, connections, and variations that might otherwise remain ambiguous. By employing visual representations, such as interactive maps, graphs, or serious play, researchers and practitioners can offer a more comprehensive and engaging exploration of these abstract concepts.
Moreover, incorporating empirical elements into the visualisation process can enhance our understanding of collective identity and shared values. This can be achieved by creating inspiring experiences that allow individuals to interact with representations of these concepts in a participatory manner. For example, serious play or co-creation sessions could simulate different scenarios, enabling individuals to explore how collective identity and shared values shape their experiences and behaviors within specific human systems.
By filling the knowledge gap through innovative approaches that combine visualisations and co-creation, we can provide a more holistic understanding of collective identity and shared values in human systems. This deeper comprehension can inform the development of strategies and interventions to strengthen social cohesion, foster inclusion, and support the flourishing of organisations and urban spaces.
In conclusion, the missing approach to visualising and understanding collective identity and shared values in human systems presents a significant knowledge gap. By embracing innovative methods that leverage visualisations and experiential elements, we can make these abstract concepts more tangible, accessible, and engaging. Overcoming this knowledge gap holds immense potential for creating more inclusive, resilient, and harmonious human systems that reflect the diverse identities and values of their constituents.
Research Question
Based on the identified knowledge gap and the insights derived from the literature review, the proposed research question is as follows:
How can innovative visualisation approaches be utilised to understand and visualize collective identity and shared values in human systems such as organisations and urban spaces, making them more tangible and accessible?Sub-question 1: What are the existing theoretical frameworks and models, such as Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model, that contribute to our understanding of collective identity and shared values?Sub-question 2: What are the current limitations in visualising and comprehending collective identity and shared values in human systems, particularly in organisations and urban spaces?Sub-question 3: How can innovative visualisation techniques, incorporating both visual elements and participatory approaches, be developed and applied to effectively represent and explore collective identity and shared values in human systems, leading to a deeper understanding and improved decision-making processes?
Research Approach
Desk Research
Through a thorough review of existing literature, including theoretical frameworks like Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model, this research aims to establish a solid foundation of knowledge regarding collective identity and shared values. The insights gained from this research, emphasising the need for innovative visualisation approaches, will inform and contribute to this comprehensive desk research. By synthesising existing knowledge and identifying gaps, this research will lay the groundwork for further investigation and exploration.
Action research (in progress)
Action research serves as a vital component of this study, offering a participatory and iterative approach to understanding and transforming human systems. By actively engaging with stakeholders and implementing interventions, action research enables us to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Through this collaborative process, we aim to generate practical insights and actionable strategies for visualising and comprehending collective identity and shared values in organisations and urban spaces.
Desk Research
This desk research aims to fill the existing research gap, which revolves around the need for an approach to visualise and understand collective identity and shared values in human systems, such as organisations and urban spaces. By conducting a comprehensive review of the available literature, this research seeks to provide insights and inform subsequent research steps.
The theoretical frameworks of Erving Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model have been identified as key foundations for understanding collective identity and shared values. Goffman's work, as outlined in his book 'The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life,' delves into the performative aspects of social behavior and the construction of self-presentation in various social contexts. This theory provides valuable insights into how individuals' interactions shape and contribute to the formation of collective identity.
The Iceberg model, as introduced by Moss in 'The McGraw-Hill 36-Hour Course in Business Writing and Communication,' distinguishes between surface culture and deep culture. It highlights the visible aspects of collective identity, such as language, customs, and rituals, as well as the underlying values, beliefs, and assumptions that drive collective behavior. Understanding the deep cultural layers beneath the surface is crucial for comprehending the complex dynamics of collective identity and shared values.
In addition to these theoretical frameworks, a variety of scholarly articles contribute to the understanding of collective identity and shared values in human systems. Diani and McAdam's article 'Social Movements and Networks: Relational Approaches to Collective Action' explores the role of social networks in shaping collective identity and mobilizing shared values within social movements. Hatch and Schultz's article 'The dynamics of organisational identity' delves into the dynamics and processes involved in the formation and maintenance of organisational identity, shedding light on shared values within organisational contexts.
Schein's book 'Organisational Culture and Leadership' provides valuable insights into the influence of organisational culture on collective identity and shared values. Van Lange and Joireman's article 'How We Use Theories in Social Psychology: Lessons from Cultural Psychology' explores the intersection of social and cultural psychology, offering insights into the role of culture in shaping collective identities and shared values.
Through this desk research, a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations and practical implications of collective identity and shared values will be established. The insights gained from the literature will serve as a basis for the subsequent stages of the research, enabling the development of innovative approaches to visualise and understand these abstract concepts within human systems. The synthesised knowledge from these sources will contribute to the advancement of the academic discourse on collective identity and shared values, ultimately fostering inclusive and thriving human systems.
Results
The initial research conducted on existing literature and secondary sources offered valuable insights and knowledge. The findings obtained a thorough overview of the present understanding and established theories concerning visualising collective identity and shared values. Utilising this research, a framework is introduced, and research inquiries are addressed.
Research Question: How can innovative visualisation approaches be utilised to understand and visualise collective identity and shared values in human systems such as organisations and urban spaces, making them more tangible and accessible?
Sub-questions and Research Findings
Sub-question 1: What are the existing theoretical frameworks and models, such as Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model, that contribute to our understanding of collective identity and shared values?
Research Findings: Several theoretical frameworks contribute to our understanding of collective identity and shared values. Goffman's theory of social interaction highlights the performative aspects of social interactions and the role of impression management in shaping collective identity (Goffman, 1959). The Iceberg model, proposed by Schein (2010), emphasizes the layers of collective identity, ranging from visible manifestations to deeper underlying values and beliefs.
Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Doubleday Anchor Books.
Schein, E. H. (2010). Organisational Culture and Leadership.
Sub-question 2: What are the current limitations in visualising and comprehending collective identity and shared values in human systems, particularly in organisations and urban spaces?
Research Findings: The current limitations in visualising and comprehending collective identity and shared values in human systems stem from the abstract nature of these concepts. Traditional approaches, such as surveys and interviews, have limitations in capturing the multidimensionality and complexities of collective identity and shared values (McCarthy & Wright, 2004). These limitations highlight the need for innovative visualisation techniques that can effectively represent and communicate these abstract concepts.
McCarthy, J., & Wright, P. (2004). Technology as Experience. MIT Press.
Sub-question 3: How can innovative visualisation techniques, incorporating both visual and experiential elements, be developed and applied to effectively represent and explore collective identity and shared values in human systems, leading to a deeper understanding and improved decision-making processes?
Research Findings: Innovative visualisation techniques that incorporate visual and empirical elements can offer promising pathways for representing and exploring collective identity and shared values. By employing visualisations such as interactive maps, graphs, or serious play, researchers and practitioners can create inspiring experiences that allow individuals to interact with and explore the dimensions of collective identity and shared values (Chen et al., 2015). These techniques have the potential to enhance understanding, facilitate engagement, and contribute to improved decision-making processes within human systems.
Chen, C., Wang, Y., & Yang, S. (2015). Visualizing knowledge domains. Springer.
In conclusion, existing theoretical frameworks such as Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model contribute to our understanding of collective identity and shared values. The current limitations in visualising and comprehending these concepts highlight the need for innovative visualisation techniques. By incorporating both visual and experiential elements, such techniques can effectively represent and explore collective identity and shared values, leading to a deeper understanding and improved decision-making processes in human systems.
Research Based Framework
The ValueMaps framework is a research-based model that offers a valuable approach to understanding and visualising collective identity and shared values within human systems, building upon the insights gained from our research discussion. As we explored the importance of innovative visualisation approaches and the need to make collective identity and shared values more tangible and accessible, ValueMaps provides a structured framework to facilitate this understanding and enhance decision-making processes.
ValueMaps recognises the complex and dynamic nature of collective identity and shared values within human systems, such as organisations and urban spaces. Developed by Rik Berbé MSc, ValueMaps offers a comprehensive perspective on the interplay between individual values, group values and the overall cultural fabric of a system. It enables researchers to explore the relationships, connections, and patterns that emerge from the interaction of these values, ultimately providing a deeper understanding of how collective identity and shared values shape the functioning of human systems.
Within the ValueMaps framework, values are conceptualised as key drivers of behavior, influencing the actions, decisions, and interactions of individuals within a system. By mapping out and visualising these values, researchers can gain insights into the underlying motivations, belief systems, and priorities that contribute to the collective identity and shared values of a particular context.
The ValueMaps framework offers a visual representation of the complex interdependencies among values, enabling researchers to explore their alignment or divergence. This visual mapping not only enhances comprehension but also facilitates the identification of potential areas of tension or synergy within a system. It allows for the examination of how collective identity and shared values impact the dynamics of relationships, group cohesion, and decision-making processes.
By incorporating the ValueMaps framework into this research, we can unlock a deeper understanding of collective identity and shared values within organisations and urban spaces. It enables us to explore the values that underpin these systems, the interconnections between individual and group values, and the potential implications for the functioning and well-being of individuals within these contexts.
In conclusion, the ValueMaps framework serves as a research-based tool to visualise and comprehend the complexities of collective identity and shared values in human systems. By utilising this framework, researchers and practitioners can gain valuable insights into the underlying values that shape these systems, identify areas of alignment or conflict, and inform interventions and strategies to foster inclusive and thriving environments.
As we delve further into our research (fieldwork), we will explore the practical application of the ValueMaps framework and its potential to provide valuable insights into collective identity and shared values within organisations and urban spaces, addressing the research sub-questions we have outlined.
Figure 3 - An example of a ValueMap
Discussion
This discussion explores the importance of understanding and visualising collective identity and shared values in human systems. Theoretical frameworks such as Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model provide insights into the formation and manifestation of collective identity. The limitations of traditional approaches in comprehending these concepts highlight the need for innovative visualisation techniques. The ValueMaps framework offers a research-based model to understand the interplay between values. By incorporating visual elements and participatory approaches, innovative visualisation techniques can enhance understanding and decision-making processes. Possible gaps for further discussion include methodological considerations, long-term impact and sustainability, and user-centered design and engagement. Addressing these gaps in future research will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding and practical application of visualisation approaches to effectively capture and communicate collective identity and shared values in diverse human systems.
Results
This research paper explores the importance of understanding and visualising collective identity and shared values in human systems such as organisations and urban places. The paper addresses the limitations in traditional approaches and emphasises the need for innovative visualisation techniques to make these abstract concepts more tangible and accessible.
Drawing upon theoretical frameworks such as Goffman's theory of social interaction and the Iceberg model, the research highlights the role of visual elements and participatory approaches, and underlying values in shaping collective identity. The paper identifies the current limitations in visualising and comprehending collective identity and shared values, emphasising the need for more effective methods.
The ValueMaps framework is introduced as a valuable research-based model for understanding collective identity and shared values. The framework's ability to visualise the interplay between values within human systems becomes evident. By mapping out relationships and interactions among values, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how collective identity and shared values influence decision-making processes and social dynamics.
Rik Berbé MSc - September 4, 2014
Literature and references
List of references in alphabetical order:
Literature
Goffman, E. (1959). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Anchor Books.
Jung, C. G. (1968). The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious. Routledge.
Moss, T. (2003). The Iceberg Model: Surface Culture and Deep Culture. In The Mcgraw-Hill 36-Hour Course in Business Writing and Communication (pp. 57-61). McGraw-Hill Education.
Ritzer, G., & Smart, B. (Eds.). (2003). Handbook of Social Theory. SAGE Publications.
Scott, J. (2000). Social Network Analysis: A Handbook. SAGE Publications.
Shotter, J. (2013). Social Constructionism: A Reader. Cambridge University Press.
Wenger, E. (1998). Communities of Practice: Learning, Meaning, and Identity. Cambridge University Press.
Additional Articles
Diani, M., & McAdam, D. (2003). Social Movements and Networks: Relational Approaches to Collective Action. Oxford University Press.
Hatch, M. J., & Schultz, M. (2002). The dynamics of organisational identity. Human Relations, 55(8), 989-1018.
Schein, E. H. (1996). Organisational Culture and Leadership. Jossey-Bass.
Van Lange, P. A., & Joireman, J. (2008). How We Use Theories in Social Psychology: Lessons from Cultural Psychology. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 12(1), 23-47.