Our systems are now restored following recent technical disruption, and we’re working hard to catch up on publishing. We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Find out more

Recommended product

Popular links

Popular links


Sociology and Organization Theory

Sociology and Organization Theory

Sociology and Organization Theory

Positivism, Paradigms and Postmodernity
John Hassard
April 1995
Available
Paperback
9780521484589
CAD$51.95
Paperback
USD
eBook

    It has been claimed that organization theory is in a state of crisis. This book traces the history of the orthodox systems theory paradigm in organization studies from its foundations 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 that has profound implications for the theory building process.

    Reviews & endorsements

    '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

    See more reviews

    Product details

    May 2012
    Adobe eBook Reader
    9781139240086
    0 pages
    0kg
    This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.

    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.
      Author
    • John Hassard