Testing management theories: critical realist philosophy and research methods

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to respond to Modell’s paper entitled “Theoretical triangulation and pluralism in accounting research: a critical realist critique” (AAAJ this issue), which offers a two-part exposition of topics and issues pertaining to the recent paper “Theoretical triangulation and pluralism in research methods in organizational and accounting research” (Hoque et al., 2013). Design/methodology/approach – Critical analysis of Modell’s observations pertaining to the paper drawing on the classical work of Burrell and Morgan (1979). Findings – The authors reemphasize the need for an interaction between adopting an ontological stance and then conducting empirical research where the authors stated that the intention was not to argue any idea that theoretical triangulation approach should become the dominant approach and “take over” single theory approach. Instead, the authors demonstrate the ways theoretical triangulation can advance the understanding of multifaceted organizational realities. Originality/value – The authors make a contribution to the generation of knowledge in research by addressing the tradeoffs involved such as possible theoretical incoherence and lack of focus when integrating theories with different ontological and epistemological assumptions.

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Critical Realism and Feminist Criminology: Shall the Twain Ever Meet?

International Journal for Crime Justice and Social Democracy ◽

10.5204/ijcjsd.v5i3.325 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 5 (3) ◽

pp. 41-52

Author(s):

Claire Renzetti

Keyword(s):

Research Methods ◽

Critical Realism ◽

Culturally Competent ◽

Critical Realist ◽

Feminist Criminology ◽

Potential Synergy ◽

Realist Criminology

This article assesses the commonalities and divergences between critical realist criminology and feminist criminology. Using Roger Matthews’ (2014) construction of Critical Realism as discussed in his book, Realist Criminology, the article first notes that critical realists have largely overlooked or dismissed feminist criminology, despite the potential synergy between the two perspectives. The article then identifies three major areas – (1) epistemology and research methods; (2) a critique of essentialism; and (3) commitment to culturally competent and client/community-centered interventions – in which the perspectives share similarities, while distinguishing the differences in each area as well. The article concludes with an invitation for dialogue between critical realists and feminist criminologists.

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