The Chaos Theory of Careers: a New Perspective on Working in the Twenty-first Century

Article Type: Suggested reading From: Human Resource Management International Digest, Volume 20, Issue 4

Robert Pryor and Jim BrightRoutledge, 2011, ISBN: 9780415806343

The Chaos Theory of Careers: A New Perspective on Working in the Twenty-first Century provides an overview of the common models in career choice and guidance and presents the limitations of these theories in today’s complex, ever-changing and unpredictable world.

After describing the strengths, similarities and limitations of existing theories, the authors set out their case for a career perspective based on chaos theory. Each step in the formulation of chaos theory is linked to similar leaps in career theory and key principles are firmly placed in the context of career development.

At the heart of chaos theory is complexity, which allows many different perspectives to be embraced, even those that contradict and oppose one another. The other core concepts are self-organization, which causes systems to seek out and form patterns; and change, viewed in terms of adaptation and resilience. With these three core concepts clearly presented to the reader, the book moves into further explanation and enhancement of the theory, with empirical evidence presented, then advice on how to apply it.

The chapters exploring the application of the theory include a detailed look at the relevance of chaos to the spiritual dimensions of career choice and development. In addition to familiar dimensions such as calling, meaning and purpose, the authors draw attention to neglected spiritual areas and show how chaos theory works to integrate and include all elements of spirituality in career choice and development.

The theory is finally applied to organizations that have been exposed to change, complexity and uncertainty in the same way as individuals. Chaos theory is related to goal setting, strategic planning, career paths, creativity and leadership, presenting the broad value that the authors feel the theory can bring to organizations.

The authors present a convincing case for their assertion that chaos theory addresses the impact of uncertainty on twenty-first century careers. Chaos theory introduces new themes into careers work as it did in the scientific world, namely embracing uncertainty, the importance of chance and humility and recognition that the order we try to impose on nature is often too simplistic.

Each element of chaos theory is connected to the work of the careers specialist by relating it to existing theories and practice. The chapters which introduce and elaborate on chaos theory do so in an accessible and engaging way,with nothing for the non-scientist to fear. Even though the book drills down into theory in significant detail, at no time does the relationship between chaos and careers feel contrived or forced.

A chapter on “attractors” (the factors which influence the system,so gravity or intermolecular forces in scientific terms) offers an interesting framework for understanding clients who fail to engage with their career development or are limited in their thinking.

Reviewed by Sara Shinton, Shinton Consulting Ltd, Galashiels, UK

A longer version of this review was originally published in Journal of European Industrial Training, Vol. 35 No 9, 2011.