Impactful Theory: Pathways to Mattering

Juliane Reinecke*, Eva Boxenbaum, Joel Gehman

*Corresponding author af dette arbejde

Publikation: Bidrag til tidsskriftLederpeer review

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Abstract

Organization Theory is an academic journal dedicated to the development and dissemination of novel theory in the domain of organizational scholarship. At the same time, an increasing chorus of organizational scholars have advocated for “impact”—broadly defined as producing societal benefit beyond the realm of academia. In this editorial, we question the implicit dichotomy between theory, on the one hand, and impact, on the other, and critically explore the notion of impactful theory. Rather than seeing theory as inherently opposed to impact, we celebrate and elucidate theory as a meaningful way to achieve impact. Specifically, we unpack the apparent oxymoron of impactful theory, and articulate seven distinct pathways whereby theory can be impactful. We close by outlining several critical questions, both for individual scholars and our collective community, as well as future research directions.
OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftOrganization Theory
Vol/bind3
Udgave nummer4
Sider (fra-til)1-20
Antal sider20
ISSN2631-7877
DOI
StatusUdgivet - okt. 2022

Emneord

  • Action research
  • Engaged scholarship
  • Impact
  • Organization theory
  • Performativity
  • Research-practice gap
  • Scientific activism
  • Theorizing

Citationsformater