Geo- and helio-centric systems

Well into the Middle Ages, the sun and planets were thought to evolve around the earth. As early as 150 AD Greek astronomer and geographer Ptolemy had published "Almagest", in which he presented mathematical models to support the theory. Another Greek mathematician - Aristarchus - had suggested otherwise 400 years earlier, but as is apparent, his theories found no support. Thus, the universe was thought of as a geo-centric (earth centered) system.

Geo-centric system (britannica.com)

It was Copernicus and Kepler who – in the early 16th century – could prove the sun to be center of our system and describe the elliptical orbits of the planets. "Helios" being the personification of the sun in Greek mythology, the universe was henceforth a helio-centric system – a solar system.

Image of helio-centric system (wikipedia)

However, Copernicus discoveries met opposition from both the Catholic and Protestant church. As a result, his work "De revolutionibus orbium coelestium" was added to the Catholic Church's list of forbidden books – Index liborum prohibitum – where it remained until 1835.

In 1633, Galilei Galileo was convicted by the Inquisition and forced to openly recant his support for the heliocentric theory. Despite doing so, Galileo remained under house arrest until he died nine years later. In 1992 – after 13(!) years of studies – a commission set down by Pope John Paul II to investigate Galileo case – concluded that it had been wrong for the Catholic Church to condemn Galileo.

For now at least, one has to conclude, that anyone advocating the helio-centric view of the universe or any associated views has had a hard time in our part of the world.

Framing

In his most recent book, Joe Pine - author of "The Experience Economy"- explores the infinite possibilities of the "multiverse". As the change manager's life is sufficiently complex, I'll keep from confusing matters even more by exploring what would happen if we also alter time, matter and space.

As Machiavelli states in the sixth book of "The Prince": "We must bear in mind, that there is nothing more difficult and dangerous, or more doubtful of success, than an attempt to introduce a new order of things in any state. For the innovator has for enemies all those who derived advantages from the old order of things, whilst those who expect to be benefited by the new institutions will be but lukewarm defenders."

It's a sobering thought that the human opposition to change has remained the same throughout history. It makes opposition easier to bear – at least for me. But how to motivate the unwilling and gain more open support from the willing and drive/lead all forward towards change? That is what this blog is about.

The blog presents you with a large number of theoretical models as well as theory based tools and formats. In their totality, they represent a coherent and immensely dynamic system that allows you to develop, implement and sustain change management efforts in any given organization, domain or field of operations. Cross my heart.

"Knowledge is theory", W. Edwards Deming states. "Experience by itself teaches nothing". However, the theory is only there to assure your foundation. All examples, models, formats and theories can be – and has been – used for hands on, in the field, work – and for producing real results in the real world. This blog is not an academic discussion of theory – it is a toolbox.

As I work with business development, experience- and transformation economy, hands-on CRM and communications as well, you will find useful models, references and examples relating to these areas from time to time. Hopefully, the tag cloud should help you navigate.

Should you find yourself in orbit or just lost in space, please send me a note, and I'll help you out the best I can.

Welcome!