Skip to content

Change Quote by Kurt Lewin

“If you want to learn about an organization, try to change it.” quote by Kurt Lewin
Download Open image
“If you want to learn about an organization, try to change it.”

Kurt Lewin

About This Quote

Source Book: Field Theory in Social Science, Kurt Lewin, 1951

Understanding an organization requires active participation and attempting to transform it, not just observing.

In simple terms: Change an organization to truly learn it.

Key Takeaway

Engage and experiment within the group.

Themes

learning leadership change systems

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

theoretical practical

When to use this quote

  • team projects
  • community organizing
  • company restructuring
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

social dynamics participatory observation organizational behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does altering a system reveal its hidden structures?
  • What risks arise when you try to change an organization?
A Different Perspective

Changing may meet resistance and unintended consequences.

2.2 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Kurt Lewin

Explore all 14 Kurt Lewin quotes

More Change quotes

Browse all 33,963 Change quotes