Deconstructing ahimsa at the workplace: its relevance and significance
South Asian Journal of Business Studies
ISSN: 2398-628X
Article publication date: 22 October 2021
Issue publication date: 31 August 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to conceptualize ahimsa at the workplace as an alternate coping response to negative workplace behaviours. The response strategy aims to impede conflict escalation and transform a hostile situation into a collaborative one.
Design/methodology/approach
The conceptualization of the indigenous construct bases upon Bhawuk's methodological suggestion on building psychological models from the scriptures (Bhawuk, 2010, 2017, 2019). The construct ahimsa explicates by synthesizing the micro-world (Bhagawad Gita, BG and Patanjali Yoga Sutras, PYS) and through the lifeworld of Gandhiji.
Findings
The conceptual analysis illustrates the efficacy of ahimsa as an alternate response to negative workplace behaviours. The definition delineates its three core characteristics, i.e. conscious non-violent action, self-empowerment and rehumanizing the perpetrator. Besides, it proposes to enhance metacognition, creativity and individual learning at the workplace.
Originality/value
The conceptual paper gives a new direction to management researchers on coping and responding to stress.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This papers forms a part of special section “Positive Organizational Scholarship in South Asia”, guest edited by Dharm P.S. Bhawuk and Ashish Pandey.
The author is grateful to Prof Dharm Bhawuk, Prof Ashish Pandey, Prof Shanti Gopalakrishnan, and to further anonymous reviewers for comments on several drafts of the paper. The author is also thankful to Mr Shamith Mendon for initial proof reading and formatting the paper.
Funding: Indian Council of Social Sciences Research.
Citation
Sarkar, A. (2022), "Deconstructing
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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