Daved van Stralen, MD, FAAP; Sean D. McKay, Element Rescue, LLC; Thomas A. Mercer, RAdm, USN (Retired)
Abstract:
In dangerous work domains, such as firefighting and military aviation, subjective reasoning, adaptability, and social knowledge play crucial roles alongside technical expertise. However, prevailing views often prioritize objectivity over subjectivity, leading to a skewed understanding of effective practices. Drawing on anecdotes from a Los Angeles City Fire Captain and experiences aboard Nimitz class aircraft carriers, this manuscript explores the interplay between subjectivity and objectivity in High-Reliability Organizing (HRO). It argues that objectivity and subjectivity are not opposing forces but complementary aspects essential for navigating complex and dynamic environments. Through examples spanning from WWII bomber crews to modern-day research in combat zones, the manuscript emphasizes the importance of embracing both perspectives to enhance organizational effectiveness and safety. By recognizing the inherent duality of objectivity and subjectivity, this work advocates for a more nuanced approach to HRO that integrates experiential and experimental empiricism, thus fostering a deeper understanding of organizational resilience and adaptability.