Explaining Management Phenomena
A Philosophical Treatise

A comprehensive guide for management and social science researchers to achieve a deeper understanding of the nature of explanation.

Eric W. K. Tsang (Author)

9781009323130, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 22 December 2022

250 pages
23.6 x 15.8 x 2 cm, 0.54 kg

‘Eric Tsang is known among management scholars for his work on knowledge transfer and learning, but perhaps particularly for his deeply thoughtful work on how core philosophy ideas can further management research. In this new book he offers his distinctive perspective on classic issues like causation, the structure of explanation, and microfoundations and provides examples throughout from strategy and other management fields. Indispensable for the serious student of management phenomena as well as the established scholar.’ Nicolai J. Foss, Professor, Copenhagen Business School

One key objective of management research is to explain business phenomena. Yet understanding the nature of explanation is essentially a topic in philosophy. This is the first book that bridges the gap between a technical, philosophical treatment of the topic and the more practical needs of management scholars, as well as others across the social sciences. It explores how management phenomena can be explained from a philosophical perspective, and renders sophisticated philosophical arguments understandable by readers without specialized training. Covering virtually all the major aspects of the nature of explanation, this work will enhance empirical and theoretical research, as well as approaches combining the two. With many examples from management literature and business news, this study helps scholars in those fields to improve their research outcomes.

1. The nature of explanation
2. Causation
3. Modes of explanation
4. Micro foundations
5. Theory versus non-theory-based explanation
6. Multi-theoretical explanation
7. Research methods
8. Explanation as science (or art?).

Subject Areas: Unexplained phenomena / the paranormal [VXQ], Management & management techniques [KJM], Philosophy & theory of education [JNA], Social theory [JHBA], Research methods: general [GPS], Language teaching theory & methods [CJA]