Abstract: This conceptual paper explores the surprising impact exerted by third elements on the escalation and de-escalation of conflicts in business families. To this end, we draw on core concepts of Batesonian cybernetic theory to perform a reconceptualisation of pertinent literature on changing conflict dynamics gath- ered in family business research and consultancy. Based on this reconceptuali- sation, we identify explanations and key mechanisms for the impact of third elements on conflict dynamics. Our study thus contributes to research at the interface of family business research, conflict research and cybernetic theory development.

Keywords: business family, conflict, cybernetics, schismogenesis, systems theory.

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Recommended citation: Nagel L., Roth S., and Kleve H. (2024), Theory of the third: A cybernetic approach to conflict dynamics in business families, Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Vol. 41 No. 3, pp. 395-403.

Photo credit: Scence from Les Pêcheurs de perles, staged by Wim Wenders in the Staatsoper Berlin, 2017.