The Little “c” Catholic Organization: Ecumentalism and The Moral Order of Work

Abstract

Catholic, “Big C,” is the institution formed in the 1st century AD from an amalgamation of Christian sects. “Little c”, catholic, is the church founders' pluralistic philosophy of inclusiveness-universal acceptance. We propose the struggle between “Big C” and “Little c” is emblematic of how an organization and organization theory confront ethical dilemmas. “Big C” organizations and organization theorists adjudicate hot, emotive issues through the cool, obfuscating language of high priests seeking resolution through participative decision-making. Alternatively, “little c” organizations and organization theory emphasize collective analysis that seeks mutual understanding through perspective sharing and praxis. In this paper we explore the dialectics of catholicsim (Big C and Little c) and critical postmodern theory (Big CT and little ct) through a dialogue between a neophyte practitioner and an erudite critical theorist seeking solutions for the ethical dilemma of international sweatshops. We conclude by recommending a pragmatic critical theory that moves beyond the participative workplace to create the ecumenical organization as the moral order of work.