Abstract
This article reviews the potential of Niklas Luhmann’s autopoiesis as a contribution to organization theory. We consider organization theory to consist of three epistemological foundations, which we label equilibrium-based theory, process-based theory and recursivity-based theory. We review critically Luhmann’s autopoietic theory in relation to each of these three foundations. We suggest that whereas it deviates radically from equilibrium-based theory and deviates significantly from process-based theory, it holds potential in its complementarity with Giddens’s structuration theory in providing a promising basis for recursivity-based organization theory.
Originalsprog | Engelsk |
---|---|
Tidsskrift | Organization Studies |
Vol/bind | 24 |
Udgave nummer | 9 |
Sider (fra-til) | 1511-1535 |
Antal sider | 25 |
ISSN | 0170-8406 |
DOI | |
Status | Udgivet - 2003 |
Udgivet eksternt | Ja |
Emneord
- Organization theory
- Autopoiesis
- Systems theory
- Luhmann