Often time we are perplexed about peoples’ actions. We ask, “Why would they do that?” “What are they thinking?” When that happens, especially in groups of people, you might want to step back from questioning individual motivations and ask what types of structural dynamics are at play. Systems, structures and rewards are powerful, yet often overlooked elements that shape behavior, actions and ultimately results. Very seldom are they designed with intention and a holistic perspective. All too often they appear immutable.
Take for example the current gridlock in Washington, D.C. Politicians pledge to work with the country’s best interest in mind rather than pursue partisan politics. The rhetoric during election time is “reaching across the aisle” and working toward long term solutions. There is much bashing of the other party’s inability to resolve longstanding issues, yet newly elected politicians quickly fall prey to the same actions.
Systems at work! Everything about our political system is focused on pitting one party against the other, both in the short term and in positioning for the next election. It’s awfully hard to take courageous, global, long-term actions when the reality is that in the short term brings reelection, and voters who expect you to look out for them. Used to be, when communication took days rather than seconds, legislators had a bit of a buffer. Now our new systems of instant sound bite communication also works to undermine thoughtful solutions and negotiations. Everything is real time and viral.
The behavior we are getting is a perfect outcome of the systems in play.
