Escape From Abilene: The Developmental Opportunity of the Review Process

What is it about?

Building on the small group Abilene Paradox metaphor, we introduce the concept of a large scale “Institutional Abilene Paradox” — a state of widespread dissatisfaction with the unintended features of an institution. We illustrate the construct through the current state of our field’s institutionalized review process and broader research culture. We briefly highlight the current issues and introduce six essays intended to encourage the leaders of the field — mentors, conference chairs, journal editors, and academic administrators — to unite and do the heavy lifting required to institute fieldwide change, demonstrating the work that has begun to overcome our collective Institutional Abilene Paradox.

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Why is it important?

It is our hope that these pieces combine not only to spur dialogue but encourage the leaders of the field—mentors, conference chairs, journal editors, and academic administrators—to unite and do the heavy lifting required if this institutional work is to advance. Words are not enough; the field requires action to institute change, and these pieces demonstrate the work that has begun. We hope you will join the effort.