VIEWING STRATEGIC INNOVATION THROUGH THE LOGIC OF CONTRADICTION

We present major aspects of two change‐oriented paradigms — formal logic and the logic of contradiction. For the Western manager, we assert that knowledge of the latter will facilitate strategic innovation in the West, similar to the trend in the Orient. Further, we identify ways in which formal logic and the logic of contradiction differ when applied to strategic innovation. Finally, we argue that the formal logic framework could inhibit competitiveness in the global business arena, whereas approaches derived from the logic of contradiction may enhance competitiveness through their influence on strategic innovation. Ultimately, the management of strategic innovation from this alternate perspective involves not only managing contradiction, but recognizing its potential positive contribution to the innovation process as well.