Theory construction as disciplined imagination

Article Abstract:

The process of theory construction in organizational studies is portrayed as imagination disciplined by evolutionary processes analogous to artificial selection. The quality of theory produced is predicted to vary as a function of the accuracy and detail present in the problem statement that triggers theory building, the number of and independence among the conjectures that attempt to solve the problem, and the number and diversity of selection criteria used to test the conjectures. It is argued that interest is a substitute for validation during theory construction, middle range theories are a necessity if the process is to be kept manageable, and representations such as metaphors are inevitable, given the complexity of the subject matter. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Problem solving

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Critique and theory building: producing knowledge "from the kitchen."

Article Abstract:

Discussion of what constitutes "good" scholarly critique in organizational studies usually emphasizes the procedural issues. The values guiding critique are seldom discussed. This article characterizes current critical practices as an "ethic of judgement" and draws from feminist theory to suggest the possibility of critique informed by an "ethic of care." The purpose of this comparison is to draw attention to the important role the values that structure critique play in the development of organization theory. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Decision making, Usage, Decision-making (Ethics), Criticism

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Time and organizational improvisation

Article Abstract:

The concept of improvisation is used to reconcile two major time dichotomies associated with organizational phenomena, clock time versus event time and linear time versus cyclical time. It is proposed that improvisation offers a means for management theorists and practitioners to overcome these apparent time dichotomies.

Organizational change

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