The challenge of “And” – tolerating the undecidable

Abstract

Purpose

This paper has the purpose of discussing the phenomenon of two competing positions, which appear in philosophy and psychology in a similar way, and the emerging possibilities when both are seen as complementary.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is to first point out the difficulty, which arises when both positions perceive each other as mutually exclusive and yet claim to fully describe reality. Then Ludwig Wittgenstein's attempt to end the conflict by drawing a line between what can be expressed in language and what is inexpressible is introduced. Finally it is shown how Heinz von Foerster tried to dissolve the argument between both positions by introducing the concept of “in principle undecidable questions”. From here the position of “and” is developed. The implications of this position as a possible way of ending (i.e. “and”‐ing) the argument are explored and then related to psychotherapy.

Findings

The findings show how the position of “and” increases possibilities in psychotherapy and poses new challenges at the same time.

Originality/value

The position of “and” with its consequences is a new perspective in psychotherapy which can be useful to practitioners and researchers as well.

Citation

Hoffmann, I.R. (2005), "The challenge of “And” – tolerating the undecidable", Kybernetes, Vol. 34 No. 3/4, pp. 400-408. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684920510581585