Organization Theory

Tuomo Peltonen, Turku School of Economics, University of Turku, Finland

"This is a thought provoking and imaginatively written book that explores in a critical fashion a wealth of organizational concepts and theories. Arguing for the need to re-read and re-think the classics, the book provides an illuminating history of organization theories, highlighting the intricate relationships between classical, modern and postmodern theories of organization. The author's sound scholarship and transparent style of writing make this ingenious book a top reader in organization studies." (Professor Mihaela Kelemen, Keele Management School, Keele University, UK) "In this fascinating new volume, Tuomo Peltonen not only provides comprehensive coverage of six key traditions that are core to understanding the origins of organization theory, he also sheds original light on the philosophical underpinnings of the subject. Taking the reader on a journey from classical to contemporary postmodern theory and all points in between, Peltonen arrives eloquently at some perceptive and far-reaching conclusions. In order to address the excesses of modernity, organization theorists need to rediscover the balance between metaphysics, empiricism and materialism in order to forge new ways of facilitating progressive organizational change. This book is a 'must read' for serious students of organization." (Professor Peter Case, Bristol Business School, University of the West of England, UK)"We need to update our understanding of organization theories, and Tuomo Peltonen delivers just that in this very useful and well-written book. The overview of classical, cultural modern, rational modern, interpretative, critical and postmodern approaches helps organizational scholars put things into perspective and to better understand the underlying onto-epistemological foundations of their and others' theorizing. As always, Peltonen combines intellectual insight with critical thinking in his unique and unapologetic style of writing. A very useful read for both people learning about organization theories and seasoned scholars working on these issues." (Professor Eero Vaara, Aalto University School of Business, Finland)"Tuomo Peltonen has produced a quite brilliant analysis of the history and evolution of organization theory. Rather than restrict the analysis to traditional issues of strategy and structure, this lucid and engaging book also tackles a range of more challenging perspectives - from interpretive and symbolic approaches, through critical and political paradigms, to recent work on postmodern and post-structural analysis. This is a thought-provoking and insightful book that academics, managers and students will enjoy." (Professor John Hassard, Manchester University, UK)

• 1. Introduction2. Classical Organization Theory3. Cultural Modern Organization Theory 4. Rational Modern Organization Theory 5. Interpretative Organization Theory 6. Critical Organization Theory 7. Postmodern Organization Theory 8. Conclusions and Discussion