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The Oxpecker and the Rhino: The Positive Effects of Symbiotic Mutualism on Organizational Survival

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  • Richard A. Hunt

    (Division of Economics and Business, Colorado School of Mines)

Abstract

The theoretical foundation and empirical thrust of strategic management is largely grounded in competition, competitive positioning and competitive advantage. It is ironic then that symbiotic mutualism - a relationship between individuals of different species, in which both derive benefit - may be more prevalent among surviving firms than zero-sum competition and may be a more potent selective force in determining the sustainability of successful organizational forms. The purpose of this paper is to articulate a framework for the future study of symbiotic mutualism. Extending the perspective of organizational ecology, I will assert that (a) symbiotic mutualism is a necessary but insufficient condition for firm sustainability; (b) organizations can be structured and staffed for symbiotic behaviors; (c) mutualistic proclivities will, on average, result in significantly higher survival rates; and, (d) new firms that fail to adopt a mutualistic orientation face dim prospects for long-term survival.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard A. Hunt, 2017. "The Oxpecker and the Rhino: The Positive Effects of Symbiotic Mutualism on Organizational Survival," Working Papers 2017-03, Colorado School of Mines, Division of Economics and Business.
    • Handle: RePEc:mns:wpaper:wp201703
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    File URL: http://econbus-papers.mines.edu/working-papers/wp201703.pdf
    File Function: First version, 2017
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Hunt, Richard A. & Lerner, Daniel A. & Ortiz-Hunt, Avery, 2022. "Lassie shrugged: The premise and importance of considering non-human entrepreneurial action," Journal of Business Venturing Insights, Elsevier, vol. 17(C).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Mutualism; Symbiosis; Population ecology; Organizational ecology; competition; Predation; Selection; Organizational survival;
    All these keywords.

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