Theory, explanation, and understanding in management research

• Jean-Etienne Joullié ^[2] ; Anthony Morven Gould ^[1]
  1. [1] Laval University

     Laval University

     Canadá

     
  2. [2] Research Center, Léonard de Vinci Pôle Universitaire
• Localización: Business Research Quarterly, ISSN 2340-9444, ISSN-e 2340-9436, Vol. 26, Nº. 4, 2023, págs. 347-360
• Idioma: inglés
• Enlaces
  • Texto completo
• Resumen

  • Theory production has been a central focus of management research for decades, mostly because theory legitimizes both management research and, through its application, management practice as professional endeavors. However, such an emphasis on theory glosses over one of its constraining and particularized roles in scientific explanation, namely that theory codifies predictive knowledge. Committing to a ‘traditional’ or ‘critical’ understanding of theory thus amounts to embracing the view that prediction is achievable within a circumscribed field of study. Such an embrace is non-controversial in natural science. However, within the realm of management studies, it necessitates and smuggles in a strawman view of human existence, one which does not accommodate freedom and responsibility. This limitation of management theory explains its inadequate utility. This article argues that alternative avenues for management research exist.