Theoretical, Philosophical, and Paradigmatic Foundations for Countering Racism: A Systems View

The purpose of this chapter is to apply a systems view of HRD that considers theoretical and philosophical foundations of HRD for questioning and challenging racism. Little, if any, attention has been given to racism as a threat to the organizational system. This is a serious omission given that racism changes the focus of theory. In addition, significant to this inquiry HRD paradigms have remained resistant to matters of race and racism. Alternative paradigms are needed that are inclusive and responsive to lived experiences. Race relations is discussed as a systems goal however, given that race and racism have been closed topic, changing the system to include race relations in theorizing HRD is a necessity.