Original Research Transmogrification in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and beyond. Let that sink in

Louise Tonelli

About the author(s) Louise Tonelli, Department of Industrial and Organisational Psychology, College of Economic and Management Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Orientation: This article provides an overview of what transformation looks like in a system from a systems psychodynamic perspective – presenting the concept of transmogrification through empirical research from a group of participants who attended South African Group Relations Conferences (GRC). Extrapolating to the larger system, Elon Musk is singled out as a practical example of a transmogrifier, transmogrifying a system.

Research purpose: Describe transformation from a systems psychodynamic perspective and what this may mean for leaders and organisations in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Motivation for the study: The literature is clear that individuals transform in groups, and a collective form of transformation is possible; however, what this transformation looks like needs to be clarified.

Research approach/design and method: The meta-theoretical paradigm of critical realism allowed for qualitative research within the hermeneutic phenomenological school of thought. A non-probability sampling strategy of eight individuals enabled a multimethod research strategy of face-to-face interviews and a focus group. Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic data analysis method, applying a systems psychodynamic lens, was used.

Main findings: The findings show that unconscious dynamics intrinsic to all humans manifest as a non-linear transformation process, presenting as preservation, transformation and transmogrification.

Practical/managerial implications: To survive and thrive in the 4IR and beyond, leaders and organisations must move beyond transformation towards transmogrification to create sustainable organisations that are yet to be thought about.

Contribution/value-add: The concept of transmogrification adds to the literature of group relations conferences, psychology, industrial and organisational psychology and systems psychodynamics.

Keywords

systems psychodynamics; transformation; preservation; transmogrification; Fourth Industrial Revolution/4IR; group relations conference; interactive qualitative analysis; free association narrative interview

JEL Codes

L00: General; L20: General; L29: Other

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

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