The Meta-content of Being and Identity: Rethinking Diversity, Inclusion, and Sustainable Organizations

Ashkan Tashvir ()

Chapter 5 in The Sustainable Organization, 2025, pp 85-127 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This chapter explores the transformative potential of moving beyond superficial Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) efforts to embrace a deeper, more sustainable approach. While many organizations focus on visible traits and compliance-driven strategies, such tokenistic measures often fall short of fostering true inclusivity and engagement. Grounded in the principles of the Being Framework, Meta-content Discourse, and the Nested Theory of Sense-Making, this chapter redefines D&I as a multidimensional and evolving construct that transcends demographic categories. By examining shared human qualities (whatness), unique personal expressions (howness), and constructed identities (whoness), this chapter highlights how organizations can unlock the full potential of diversity. Through epistemic humility and vulnerability, leaders can foster environments where individuals feel valued not only for their identities but also for their perspectives, narratives, and contributions. This layered understanding of identity transforms diversity into a dynamic force for innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth. The chapter provides practical strategies for cultivating inclusive cultures, demonstrating how a deeper engagement with identity enables teams to navigate complexity, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful change. By shifting from surface-level inclusion to deeper relational dynamics, organizations can create spaces where diversity flourishes as a cornerstone of excellence and adaptability, ensuring long-term success in an interconnected and ever-changing world.

Keywords: Being framework; Metacontent discourse; Nested theory of sense-making; Identity; Diversity; Inclusion; Sustainable organizations; Human qualities; Unique personal expressions; Constructed identities (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
References: Add references at CitEc
Citations:

There are no downloads for this item, see the EconPapers FAQ for hints about obtaining it.

Related works:
This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: Search for items with the same title.

Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text

Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:fuobcp:978-3-031-89549-4_5

Ordering information: This item can be ordered from
http://www.springer.com/9783031895494

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-89549-4_5

Access Statistics for this chapter

More chapters in Future of Business and Finance from Springer
Bibliographic data for series maintained by Sonal Shukla () and Springer Nature Abstracting and Indexing ().