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Public Sector Organizational Failure: A Study of Collective Denial in the UK National Health Service

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  • Jane Hendy

    (Brunel University London)

  • Danielle A. Tucker

    (University of Essex)

Abstract

This paper argues that public sector organizational failure may be best understood from a perspective of collective denial. The rise of this phenomenon is examined using testimony from a Public Inquiry into the downfall of a UK hospital, where falling organizational standards led to unethical decision making and an unacceptable number of patient deaths. In this paper, we show how collective denial, over time, became a process that resided within the fabric of organizational life. To explore the organizational processes associated with collective denial, and how and why it occurs, we identify the influence of a ‘narrative of silence.’ This narrative allows ever more serious failings to be justified as organizational members lose contact with reality entering a downward spiral with no recovery. The combined impact of assumptions about leadership capability, enculturated professional identities, and organizational loyalty create an environment where a narrative of silence can develop.

Suggested Citation

  • Jane Hendy & Danielle A. Tucker, 2021. "Public Sector Organizational Failure: A Study of Collective Denial in the UK National Health Service," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 172(4), pages 691-706, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:172:y:2021:i:4:d:10.1007_s10551-020-04517-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-020-04517-1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Tom Entwistle & Heike Doering, 2024. "Amoral Management and the Normalisation of Deviance: The Case of Stafford Hospital," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 190(3), pages 723-738, March.
    2. Sophie Hales & Melissa Tyler, 2022. "Heroism and/as injurious speech: Recognition, precarity, and inequality in health and social care work," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 29(4), pages 1199-1218, July.
    3. Sarah Brooks & John Richmond & John Blenkinsopp, 2023. "Applying a Lens of Temporality to Better Understand Voice About Unethical Behaviour," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 188(4), pages 681-692, December.

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