What theory is-A late reply to Sutton and Staw 1995

Theory plays a central role in research in management science, with theoretical contribution an essential measure for evaluating research. However, the many ambiguities regarding the use of the theory concept make judgments imprecise and, to an extent, arbitrary. The discussion of the concept of theory in management science has remarkably little anchoring in the findings of the philosophy of science. This article presents some of these findings and discusses the concepts of explanation and theory on this basis. In particular, Sutton and Staw's (1995, p. 385) notion that theory should provide a logical explanation of causal relationships formulated in hypotheses is critically questioned.

Automated summary

Theory plays a central role in management science research and its contribution is crucial for evaluation. However, the lack of clarity surrounding the theory concept leads to imprecise and arbitrary judgments. The discussion of theory in management science lacks a solid foundation in the philosophy of science. This article explores some research findings and discusses the concepts of explanation and theory based on them, critically questioning Sutton and Staw's notion of theory providing a logical explanation for causal relationships formulated in hypotheses.