Sherri,
You ask if it is possible to have learning organizations when the
organization manages by fear or bullying or power methods. you cited some
scary scenarios from your consulting experience. The answer is no, it is
not possible. in my experience it is not even worth the effort unless you
enjoy self-punishment.
On the other hand, there a lot of situations where _individuals_ practice
abuse of employees, but this is not condoned or encouraged by the company.
In those places, there may be hope. In those places, bringing those
characteristics to the surface is often very edifying. If the reaction is
apathy, then there is again, no hope. If the reaction is horror, or at
least disgust, then there really is hope.
Also, while I know your experience is not rare, there are a fair number of
very good companies out there. Those can benefit from the LO perspective.
--Rol Fessenden
Learning-org -- Hosted by Rick Karash <rkarash@karash.com> Public Dialog on Learning Organizations -- <http://www.learning-org.com>