Using Kidder's dilemma paradigm to resolve conflicts in library core values

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify core values commonly held by library and information professionals and discusses whether Rushworth Kidder's concept of dilemma paradigms may be used to analyze and resolve conflicts between the right to access to information and other core values. Kidder identifies two types of dilemmas: “right‐versus‐wrong” and “right‐versus‐right”. He defines “right‐versus‐right” dilemmas as those that “however complex and varied, typically reduce themselves to one or more of the following dilemma paradigms: Truth versus Loyalty, Self versus Community, Short Term versus Long Term and Justice versus Mercy.”Methodology/design/approachThe paper discusses Kidder's theory and applies it to several situations or scenarios reported by practicing librarians.FindingsThe analysis of the scenarios highlights the complex nature of dilemmas faced by library and information professionals.Research limitations/implicationsThe scenarios are limited in number and drawn from only one country. The authors recommend more research on the application of Kidder's theory to authentic library scenarios.Originality/valueThere is little discussion of Kidder in library literature. Despite the limitations, this paper will introduce librarians to dilemma paradigms as one possible tool for resolving conflicts.