The Tetralemma: A Systemic Method for Complex Decision-Making
- simonedgarcia
- Oct 3, 2024
- 3 min read
In systemic counseling and coaching, there are many methods to deal with complex issues. One particularly effective technique is the Tetralemma. Originally stemming from Indian philosophy, it has been adopted by systemic therapy and constellation work. This method helps in gaining new perspectives during decision-making processes and resolving seemingly stuck situations.
What is the Tetralemma?
The Tetralemma is a decision-making model, especially useful in situations where only two opposing positions seem to exist. Typically, in such moments, we see the world in black and white, as an either-or scenario. The Tetralemma expands this either-or dichotomy by introducing two more options, thereby opening up new perspectives.
At its core, the model presents four positions:
The One (e.g., Position A)
The Other (e.g., Position B)
Both (a combination of A and B)
Neither (neither A nor B)
Additionally, the model can be extended to include a fifth position, often referred to as "All Possible Options" or "What Lies Beyond A and B". This position creates space for entirely new, creative solutions that might not have been considered before.
The Tetralemma Process
In systemic counseling, the Tetralemma process is often illustrated spatially through a constellation setup. The four basic positions (and sometimes the fifth) are symbolically represented by different standpoints, which the client physically takes up in the room. By stepping into each position, the client reflects on the issue from that specific perspective, gaining new insights.
The One: What speaks in favor of choosing Position A? What arguments and emotions support this choice?
The Other: What are the reasons for Position B? What are the pros and cons here?
Both: Is there a way to combine Positions A and B? How would a solution look that incorporates both aspects?
Neither: What if neither A nor B is the right solution? What other possibilities exist that haven’t been considered yet?
What Lies Beyond A and B: What would happen if you left behind all previous ways of thinking and categories? What entirely new approaches could emerge from this perspective?
Example from Practice: Job Change or Self-Employment?
Let’s imagine Anna is facing a difficult career decision: Should she stay in her secure job (Position A) or take the leap into self-employment (Position B)? She feels torn because both options have pros and cons.
The One (A – Staying in the Job): Anna steps into this position and thinks about why it makes sense to stay in her job. The security, the steady income, and the stable working conditions are all strong arguments. However, she also feels dissatisfied and senses that she’s no longer growing professionally.
The Other (B – Self-Employment): Now, she envisions self-employment. She would be free to implement her own ideas, which excites her. But the uncertainties, financial risks, and lack of routine make her anxious.
Both (Combining Job and Self-Employment): Next, she wonders if there’s a way to combine both options. Could she reduce her hours at her current job and start building her own business on the side? This option could provide her with the security she needs while gradually transitioning into self-employment.
Neither: Anna reflects on whether neither staying in her job nor self-employment is the right solution. Could it be that she needs to explore entirely different career paths? Perhaps a new training program could open up fresh perspectives in her current job, or a new career outside of these two choices altogether?
What Lies Beyond A and B: Finally, Anna opens herself up to the fifth position. In this perspective, she lets go of the previous thought patterns and asks herself: “What completely new possibilities could there be that I haven’t considered yet?” Here, she comes up with the idea of joining a network of freelance consultants, where she could enjoy both independence and support.
Conclusion: The Tetralemma as a Powerful Tool
The Tetralemma helps to open up stuck decision-making processes and discover new, previously unseen perspectives. It’s not only useful for individual decisions but also for team processes, conflict resolution, and strategic considerations within companies.
In situations where only two options seem to exist, the Tetralemma broadens the horizon and brings forth surprisingly creative solutions. For those looking for a method to break through entrenched patterns of thinking, the Tetralemma is a powerful systemic tool.