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Tamara: Journal for Critical Organization Inquiry

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Year 12/2024 
Volume 21 
Issue 1

Letting Things Happen: John Cage as a Giant of Organizational Studies

Luigi Sicca
University of Naples Federico II and Scuola Superiore Meridionale, Napoli

Davide Bizjak
University of Naples Federico II, Napoli

Domenico Napolitano
Scuola Superiore Meridionale, Napoli

12/2024 21 (1) Tamara: Journal for Critical Organization Inquiry

DOI 10.7206/tamara.1532-5555.19

Article contents

Abstract

This article explores the influence of avant-garde composer John Cage (1912–1992) on organizational studies, proposing that his work provides a rich source for understanding organizational theory. Cage’s concepts – such as indeterminacy, silence, process orientation, experimentation, active involvement, and feedback – offer alternative methods for studying organizations, indicating that the sources of organizational knowledge can extend beyond economics and management to incorporate ancient disciplines like music and philosophy. Rather than metaphorically applying musical principles, the article directly examines how Cage’s aesthetic principles that guide both his music compositions and his conference lectures can serve as a foundation for organizational dynamics. By treating sound and silence as organizational tools, Cage’s work encourages a shift from traditional structures toward embracing indeterminacy and uncertainty within organizations. In doing so, it highlights that the organizational dimension lacks any predetermined objective but rather happens. Concluding with an “open mic” view of organizational theory, the study advocates for a broader, more experimental approach to organizational knowledge and emphasizes an evolving, responsive practice that mirrors Cage’s own innovative legacy.

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APA style

Sicca, Luigi Maria & Bizjak, Davide & Napolitano, Domenico (2024). Letting Things Happen: John Cage as a Giant of Organizational Studies. https://doi.org/10.7206/tamara.1532-5555.19

MLA style

Sicca, Luigi Maria and Bizjak, Davide and Napolitano, Domenico. “Letting Things Happen: John Cage As A Giant Of Organizational Studies”. 12/2024AD. Tamara: Journal For Critical Organization Inquiry, vol. 21, no. 1, 2024, pp. 7-28.

Chicago style

Sicca, Luigi Maria and Bizjak, Davide and Napolitano, Domenico. “Letting Things Happen: John Cage As A Giant Of Organizational Studies”. Tamara: Journal For Critical Organization Inquiry, Tamara: Journal for Critical Organization Inquiry, 21, no. 1 (2024): 7-28. doi:10.7206/tamara.1532-5555.19.

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