Learning From Habermas and Machiavelli: A Thought Experiment in Supply Chain Management

Amanda Bille

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

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Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to show the benefits of bridging the gap between supply chain management (SCM) and political philosophy to challenge the underlying assumptions about SCM concepts and open doors to novel theory building.

Design/methodology/approach
A thought experiment is conducted to illustrate how the two philosophers Niccolò Machiavelli and Jürgen Habermas would tackle sustainability issues in coffee supply chains from a research perspective. The thought experiment is carried out using data from 30 semi-structured interviews with actors from the coffee industry. Supplementing the thought experiment with empirical insights allows for a deeper understanding of supply chain dynamics and how these are impacted by the application of the philosophical viewpoints.

Findings
The research stresses the importance of SCM scholars being aware of the underlying assumptions of their research, as these have a remarkable impact on theory building. A combination of empirical insights and philosophical understandings makes it possible to reflect on the underlying concepts of SCM, providing suggestions for reimagining SCM.

Originality/value
The contribution of the research is twofold. First, the paper presents an original view on SCM, as the thought experiment is introduced as an approach to better understand SCM concepts. By challenging the underlying assumptions with political philosophy, researchers will be better equipped to address grand challenges in the twenty-first century. Second, this is exemplified by the case study of the coffee supply chain, which provides the reader with insight into the dynamics of supply chains with prevalent power differences.
Original languageEnglish
JournalThe International Journal of Logistics Management
Volume35
Issue number6
Pages (from-to)1713-1738
Number of pages26
ISSN0957-4093
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024

Bibliographical note

Published online: 25 January 2024.

Keywords

  • Supply chain management
  • Theory building
  • Research methods
  • Political philosophy
  • Thought experiment

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