Spiral Dynamics

"... Spiral Dynamics® [is a] meta-model ("a model about other models") of evolving perceptual, thinking and values systems within people, groups, organizations, nations and subcultures.

This research originally derived from the psychologist Clare W. Graves, and has been spearheaded by two students, Dr. Don Beck and Chris Cowan....The best source for this meta-model, while not a "quick" read (which the authors admit), is Beck and Cowan's book Spiral Dynamics: Mastering Values, Leadership and Change (Oxford: Blackwell Publishers, 1996)...

There are several other Gravesian interpretations around, notably by Jenny Wade and an introductory overview that discusses more "real-world" applications within Ken Wilber's "Wilber-4" model (I always advise people to utilize Beck and Cowan's book first, to appreciate SD's full scope). A mini-course was recently posted in Adobe Acrobat PDF, by Chris Cowan and Natasha Todorovic, his colleague.

Spiral Dynamics® has also been featured at the World Future Society conclave, and has been successfully applied within Fortune 500 companies, to resolve geopolitical crises (such as South Africa's transition to a post-apartheid society), sporting teams, and to revitalize local communities."