Linking OD’s philosophy with justice theory: postmodern implications

Abstract

The purpose of this article is twofold; first, to demonstrate a linkage between the tenets of justice theory and OD core values, assumptions and ethical beliefs and, second, to show the role of this linkage as it applies to postmodern organizations in terms of the evolution of OD technology. Distributive, procedural and interactional justice is discussed and juxtaposed with the humanistic and organizational effectiveness orientations that compise the core values of OD. Finally, ways are suggested that the linkage between justice theory and OD core values can be used for the development of OD science and its application to the postmodern organizational paradigm of equality, empowerment and horizontal relationships.