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September 10, 2025

The Power Structure of Untouchable Symbols in a Zombified Organization

Key Points

The study shows that untouchable symbols create a culture of silence in organizations, hindering renewal.
Field observations reveal that the 'symbol–silence–mimicry' loop reinforces authority and suppresses dissent.
The proposed model highlights how cultural rigidity stems from the repetitive use of these symbols, marginalizing alternative viewpoints.
Desanctification of symbols is essential for restoring healthy organizational dynamics and fostering innovation.

Abstract

This paper analyzes the structural mechanisms of symbolic domination in modern organizations and examines how they give rise to “zombified organization.” When certain symbols become untouchable and immune to criticism, rational judgment is replaced by a culture of silence and mimicry. The paper presents a model of the “symbol–silence–mimicry” loop, where symbolic legitimacy is reflexively reproduced to justify authority and suppress dissent. Combining field observations and theoretical frameworks, the study reveals how the repetitive invocation of symbols leads to cultural rigidity, silencing alternative perspectives and hindering organizational renewal. The paper concludes with a proposal for the “desanctification” and redefinition of symbols as a necessary process for the future of healthy organizational life.

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Cite This Study

Koichi Hiraoka (Fri,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/68c1c62f54b1d3bfb60f1ea8 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/p29hd_v1

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