One of the most important tools available in Integral coaching is the AQAL (pronounced “ah-qwul”) framework of Integral Theory, which allows us to view issues from the perspective of all quadrants, all levels, all lines, all states, and all types.
The Quadrants (UL / UR / LL / LR)
As a starting point, it is useful to consider ‘All Quadrants,’ which refers to four different views of reality from the perspective of “I,” “We,” “It,” and “Being.”
THE UPPER LEFT QUADRANT (UL) refers to the “I”, to what is happening inside the individual.
UPPER RIGHT QUADRANT (UR) refers to the “It”, that which we can see objectively from outside of the individual.
THE LOWER LEFT QUADRANT (LL) refers to the “we,” that which happens within the collective – e.g., what happens at the cultural level.
THE LOWER RIGHT QUADRANT (LR): refers to the “it,” that which we can see objectively from outside the collective – e.g., systems.
The four quadrants of the AQAL model are an excellent starting point for building an integral global men’s movement and help us understand all the issues facing men and boys.
We will gain a much clearer understanding of all men’s and boys’ issues if we always ask ourselves:
1. What are the actual facts of the matter (top right)
2. What is influencing this issue systemically (bottom right)
3. What is happening on a cultural level (bottom left)
4. What is the subjective experience of men (and women) and how does this influence the issue?