Concise Introduction to Organization Theory

Our Elgar Concise Introductions are inspiring and considered. They explain the key principles in business and are expertly written by some of the world’s leading scholars. The aims of the series are two-fold: to pinpoint essential concepts of business and management, and to offer insights that stimulate critical thinking.

In this Concise Introduction, Michael Lounsbury and Joel Gehman set out an overview of organization theory that clarifies how to cultivate a robust scholarly identity in a field rich with diverse research traditions. Providing a summary of rationalist, pragmatic and co-constitutive theories, they highlight how scholars can meaningfully contribute to the academic conversation and maximize the practical relevance of their work.

Key features:

• Provides a comparative analysis of different organization theories
• Helps scholars mindfully position themselves and their work within specific academic discussions
• Highlights opportunities to bridge ontological differences by engaging in scholarly debates across theoretical categories

This Concise Introduction is a crucial reference point for organization scholars. It will also appeal to doctoral students and early-career scholars in management, strategy and entrepreneurship.