Causal layered analysis (CLA) is
offered as a new research theory (drawing from poststructuralism, Tantric
epistemology and futures studies) and method. As a theory it seeks to
integrate empiricist, interpretive, critical, and action learning modes of
knowing at inner and outer levels. As a method, its utility is not in
predicting the future but in creating transformative spaces for the creation
of alternative futures. It is also likely to be useful in developing more
effective deeper, inclusive, longer term policy.
Causal layered analysis "Causal
layered analysis: the four levels" consists of four levels: the litany,
social causes, discourse/worldview, and myth/metaphor. The first level is
the litany the official unquestioned view of reality. The second level is
the social causation level, the systemic perspective. The data of the litany
is explained and questioned at this second level. The third level is the
discourse/worldview. Deeper, unconsciously held ideological, worldview and
discursive assumptions are unpacked at this level. As well, how different
stakeholders construct the litany and system is explored. The fourth level
is the myth/metaphor, the unconscious emotive dimensions of the issue.
The challenge is to conduct research
that moves up and down these layers of analysis and thus is inclusive of
different ways of knowing. Different perspectives (including those of
stakeholders, ideologies and epistemes) are in particular brought in the
third and fourth levels at the levels of worldview and myth. This allows
for breadth. These differences are then used to reconstruct the more visible
levels social policy and litany.
CLA as well can be applied not just
to the external world but to the inner world of meanings the litany of
self-representation, the system of identities, the discourses of the
architecture of the mind, and foundational myths and metaphors that define
the construction of identity. Conceptual movement through depth and
breadth, allows for the creation of authentic alternative futures and
integrated transformation. CLA begins and ends by questioning the future.
CLA defined, click
here
Published and unpublished research
on CLA is presented below.
THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL
INTRODUCTION
Sohail Inayatullah,
Causal layered analysis: deepening the future. Chapter from
Questioning the Future: methods and tools for organizational and societal
transformation.
Sohail
Inayatullah,
Causal layered analysis: theory, historical context, and case studies.
Introductory Chapter from the Causal Layered Analysis Reader. theory and
case studies of an integrative and transformative methodology.
Jose Ramos,
Transcendence of a method: the story of casual layered analysis.
PUBLISHED
PAPERS
Marcus Barber,
No Mere Drop in the
Ocean
Nicholas Fleming,
Understanding whats really going on as a basis for transforming thinking,
action and our cities
Jennifer Gidley,
Creating
a new spiritual mythology for western culture
Sohail
Inayatullah,
Ageing alternative futures and policy choices
Murray
May and Stuart Hill,
Unpacking aviation travel futures an application of causal layered
analysis
Paul Mcquillan,
Youth Ministry in a world of diversity
Rowena Morrow,
What is the debate around paid maternity leave really about? Using cla
to delve under the surface.
Jose Ramos,
Conceptualising agency through the world social forum process: A layered
analysis of alternative globalization
Debbie Terranova,
Navigating by the stars: using futures methodologies to create a preferred
vision for the workforce
Debbie Terranova,
Fathoming the ageing workforce debate
David Turnbull,
CLA as pedagogy in studies of science and technology
UNPUBLISHED PAPERS
David
Rawnsley, A
futures perspective in the school curriculum
Paul Wildman,
From causal layered
analysis to causal layered synthesis
Sabina Head, Forward Theatre: Futures Studies
in Drama
RESEARCH NOTES
Hui-Ju Chiang
CLA on Ageing in Taiwan
Simon Heilesen and
Neils Erik Willi,
simonhei@ruc.dk.
How to
predict the future of print publishing. Draft paper, Malaga University,
March 2004.
