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Book Synopsis
It has been claimed that organisation theory is in a state of 'crisis'. This book traces the history of the orthodox systems theory paradigm in organisation studies from its foundations in positivist sociology, through its theoretical and empirical development under structural-functionalism, to its recent deconstruction by postmodernists. The analysis offers general support for the 'sociology-in-crisis' thesis, but takes issue with one of its main propositions, that paradigms are incommensurable. It is argued that paradigms are porous rather than hermetic phenomena, a fact which has profound implications for the theory building process. Based on language-game philosophy, a dialectical theory is developed to illustrate how seemingly exclusive idioms can be mediated. The enquiry provides a pluri-paradigm method for organisational research, and an epistemological framework for postmodern organisational analysis.

Trade Review
'An exciting and important book…a significant contribution to organization theory.' British Journal of Industrial Relations
'Commendable for its lucidity and thorough scholarship.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

Table of Contents
Introduction; 1. Foundations of orthodoxy; 2. The hegemony of systems; 3. From functionalism to fragmentation; 4. Closed paradigms and analytical openings; 5. Multiple paradigm research; 6. Postmodernism and organisation; Notes; Bibliography; Author index; Subject index.

Sociology and Organization Theory Positivism Paradigms and Postmodernity 20 Cambridge Studies in Management Series Number 20

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    A Paperback by John Hassard

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      View other formats and editions of Sociology and Organization Theory Positivism Paradigms and Postmodernity 20 Cambridge Studies in Management Series Number 20 by John Hassard

      Publisher: Cambridge University Press
      Publication Date: 4/6/1995 12:00:00 AM
      ISBN13: 9780521484589, 978-0521484589
      ISBN10: 0521484588
      Also in:
      Organizational theory and behaviour

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      It has been claimed that organisation theory is in a state of 'crisis'. This book traces the history of the orthodox systems theory paradigm in organisation studies from its foundations in positivist sociology, through its theoretical and empirical development under structural-functionalism, to its recent deconstruction by postmodernists. The analysis offers general support for the 'sociology-in-crisis' thesis, but takes issue with one of its main propositions, that paradigms are incommensurable. It is argued that paradigms are porous rather than hermetic phenomena, a fact which has profound implications for the theory building process. Based on language-game philosophy, a dialectical theory is developed to illustrate how seemingly exclusive idioms can be mediated. The enquiry provides a pluri-paradigm method for organisational research, and an epistemological framework for postmodern organisational analysis.

      Trade Review
      'An exciting and important book…a significant contribution to organization theory.' British Journal of Industrial Relations
      'Commendable for its lucidity and thorough scholarship.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

      Table of Contents
      Introduction; 1. Foundations of orthodoxy; 2. The hegemony of systems; 3. From functionalism to fragmentation; 4. Closed paradigms and analytical openings; 5. Multiple paradigm research; 6. Postmodernism and organisation; Notes; Bibliography; Author index; Subject index.

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