This book explores the gap between espoused theories and actual behavior in organizations. Argyris, a renowned organizational psychologist, examines how individuals and groups often act in ways that contradict their stated beliefs and intentions. The work delves into the underlying defensive routines and single-loop learning that perpetuate these discrepancies, arguing for the necessity of double-loop learning to achieve genuine change and effectiveness.

Chris Argyris's work is foundational in the fields of organizational behavior and management theory. 'Theory in Practice' is recognized for its rigorous analysis of the disconnect between what people say they will do and what they actually do within organizations. The book is considered essential reading for understanding organizational dynamics and the challenges of implementing change, offering a framework for diagnosing and addressing these issues.