Challenging the orthodox: a decade of critical perspectives on international business

2014 ◽  
Vol 10 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 2-20 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joanne Roberts ◽  
Christoph Dörrenbächer
Keyword(s):  
International Business ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Political Campaigns ◽  
Critical Perspective ◽  
10Th Anniversary ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Journal Quality ◽  
Anniversary Issue ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Critical Perspectives

Purpose – This article reflects on the development and impact of critical perspectives on international business (CPoIB) during its first decade of existence. The influence that the journal has had through its efforts to challenge orthodox understandings of international business (IB) is considered. The evolution of CPoIB is set against the changing global environment. The contributions to this 10th anniversary issue are outlined. Design/methodology/approach – The journal's contents are reviewed and their impact assessed through an analysis of download and citation data. The position of the journal in various journal quality rankings is also examined. The contents of mainstream IB journals are compared to those of CPoIB. Findings – During its short life, CPoIB has had an important impact on the field of IB both directly through the consideration of issues from a critical perspective in the pages of the journal and through its influence on the field of IB and critical management studies. Research limitations/implications – The conclusions of the research are based on nine years of citation and download data as well as journal quality lists. Practical implications – The findings of this paper provide valuable information for authors seeking a quality and impactful outlet for their research in the field of critical perspectives on IB and related disciplines. Academic and political activists in the field of IB will find theoretical backgrounds supporting their political campaigns. Originality/value – This is the only paper to undertake an assessment of the first decade of CPoIB's development, content, and impact.

Promoting multi-paradigmatic cultural research in international business literature

2016 ◽  
Vol 29 (4) ◽  
pp. 599-629 ◽  
Author(s):  
Taran Patel
Keyword(s):  
Complex System ◽  
Cultural Studies ◽  
International Business ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Critical Perspective ◽  
Culture Studies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
New Organizational Forms ◽  
Cultural Research ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address four questions: what are the drawbacks of an over reliance on the objectivist tradition in culture in international business (CIB) scholarship? Is a shift from mono-paradigmatic to multi-paradigmatic cultural research justified? What explains scholars’ hesitation in engaging in multi-paradigmatic studies? What arguments can we offer to convince them otherwise? Design/methodology/approach – Informed by the critical perspective, this paper encourages a shift from mono-paradigmatic to multi-paradigmatic cultural studies. Guided by an emancipatory interest, and treating the field of culture studies as a complex system, this paper offers an integrative complexity (IC) based argument in favor of multi-paradigmatic studies. It argues that multi-paradigmatic studies allow scholars to employ higher IC than mono-paradigmatic studies, resulting in more innovative research outputs. Findings – While mono-paradigmatic studies can achieve either predictability of output or in-depth understanding of cultural phenomena, multi-paradigmatic studies are capable of attaining both. The authors illustrate this through the example of a recent multi-paradigmatic study. Research limitations/implications – This paper does not offer insights for operationalizing multi-paradigmatic research, nor does it address factors other than IC that may impede scholars from engaging in such studies. Practical implications – Shifting from mono-paradigmatic to multi-paradigmatic studies will enable scholars to address questions hitherto left unaddressed in CIB literature, facilitate a better understanding of new organizational forms, and redress the power disequilibrium between different paradigmatic schools. Implications are also offered for the training of cultural researchers in business schools. Originality/value – This paper is the first of its kind to relate IC to merits of multi-paradigmatic cultural studies.

Creative approaches for generating growth using minimal resources

2020 ◽  
Vol 36 (12) ◽  
pp. 9-10
Keyword(s):  
International Business ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Business Models ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Export Market ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Industry Experience ◽  
Positive Effect ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This research paper clarifies that a coopetition-oriented mindset does drive coopetition-oriented behaviors. The results reveal that industry experience has a negative impact on the manifestation of coopetition-oriented behaviors, due a risk-related reticence in choosing suitable coopetition partners. Engaging in internationalization – for example, by partnering with a competitor to enter a foreign export market – with a coopetition-oriented mindset, has the positive effect of yielding further coopetition-oriented behaviors. Organizations involved in international business models are therefore more likely to partake in coopetition strategies. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

International business in an era of anti-globalization

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 78-90 ◽  
Author(s):  
Klaus E. Meyer
Keyword(s):  
International Business ◽  
Public Engagement ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Practice Research ◽  
Economic Prosperity ◽  
Remedial Action ◽  
Unequal Distribution ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Research And Education ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The apparent onset of an era of anti-globalization creates significant challenges for international business (IB) practice, research and education. This paper aims to discuss the implication of these challenges for IB scholarship. Design/methodology/approach This essay assesses the needs for research in IB in view of the challenges posed by the anti-globalization movement. Findings The author identifies and analyzes two sets of concerns of the anti-globalization movement: the unequal distribution of the benefits of globalization and emergent constraints on national sovereignty. On that basis, he offers suggestions on how international business scholars may contribute to addressing these challenges through research, teaching and public engagement. Practical implications Businesses need to understand the economic and institutional arguments motivating the anti-globalization movement and to address them within their scope of activity. Social implications Globalization benefits societies, in general, but some groups do not benefit unless specific remedial action is taken. If these groups are not supported, they can cause political disruption to IB and, hence, economic prosperity. Originality/value This paper offers a pathway for IB scholars to contribute to discourses on globalization and anti-globalization.

Lessons we never wanted to learn: pandemic as pedagogy

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 621-627
Author(s):  
Timothy J. Fogarty
Keyword(s):  
Research Design ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Interpersonal Relations ◽  
Social Implications ◽  
Critical Perspective ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Accounting Research ◽  
The World ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Level Analysis

Purpose The purpose of this paper is a reflective account in which one person who has been around long enough to see a good bit considers how COVID-19 might change the general contours of the world. Design/methodology/approach This paper follows a broadly based and relatively unstructured approach, based on personal understandings and whatever rigor might have been gained by a life spent thinking about research design and the limits of methodology. Findings The opposite of what many others believe will happen is argued for. Things will change more than we wish. Most will change for the worse. Research limitations/implications Accounting research will have a role to play, but to have impact, this study will require that researchers adopt a much more critical perspective about capitalism and its consequences than before. Practical implications Everyone must do the best they can. Everyone must learn to accept the new and not rage to restore that which existed in before times. Social implications Harsher climate of interpersonal relations will be realized. Originality/value This paper is more about change than about accounting. A 30,000-foot level analysis that does not try to provide many examples. An effort to rise above the specifics that vary across the world.

Reflections on the COVID-19 pandemic's human challenges

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Crisis Management ◽  
International Business ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Attitudes And Practices ◽  
Social Trends ◽  
Self Interest ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This viewpoint paper examines COVID-19's impact in international business attitudes and practices, namely: revisiting and intensifying power imbalances, shifts to greater national protectionism, and company crisis management strategies during the pandemic. Links between COVID-19, trade, poverty, and human rights are also considered. The authors report that COVID-19 has aggressively intensified pre-existing social trends like the concentration of wealth and power, and the dominance of large businesses and big tech. The devastation of economies in developing countries has revealed how dependent they are on trade with wealthier countries and multinational companies, who can sever their loyalty mercilessly out of self-interest. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Reflections on business ethics through 1992-2017

2017 ◽  
Vol 29 (6) ◽  
pp. 628-641 ◽  
Author(s):  
Greg Wood
Keyword(s):  
Business Ethics ◽  
International Business ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Foreseeable Future ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Developed Economies ◽  
International Business Ethics ◽  
The World ◽  
The Future ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide reflections on business ethics in the 25-year window from 1992-2017, and to then seek to examine some of the concerns for the future of which we all need to be cognizant. Design/methodology/approach The paper represents the reflections of a now retired academic who spent the period from 1992 to 2017 researching in the area of business ethics. Findings In the world of commerce, we are still seeing the same alleged behaviours by corporations from developed economies that have dogged business for so long. Have we moved forward and how far have we moved are difficult to determine. Research limitations/implications The paper is based on the reflections on 25 years of research in the area of international business ethics. The limitation is that the paper is based on the experiences of one academic. Practical implications The paper points to considerations that are required if the field of business ethics is to move forward in a positive manner. Originality/value The paper looks at many of the pertinent issues facing the field of commerce in respect to business ethics now and into our foreseeable future.

Planet, people and profits

2015 ◽  
Vol 31 (6) ◽  
pp. 12-14
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Reading Time ◽  
Public Life ◽  
Cutting Edge ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pertinent Information ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Critical Perspectives

Purpose – This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings – The role of a critic is perhaps one of the most overlooked and misunderstood positions in public life, and by extension so is that of critical perspectives. In film or books, the role of a critic is to contextualize, educate and review artistic endeavor; however, ultimately it is the “thumbs up or thumbs down” judgment that gets the coverage and engages with an audience. Practical implications – The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Blockchain technology in international business: changing the agenda for global governance

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (2) ◽  
pp. 183-200 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda Hooper ◽  
Dirk Holtbrügge
Keyword(s):  
International Finance ◽  
International Business ◽  
Global Governance ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Global Scale ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Future Studies ◽  
Blockchain Technology ◽  
Insurance Supply ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Blockchain technology has extended beyond the border of cryptocurrency and taken hold in various areas of international business. This study aims to analyze the impacts of blockchain on international business and the resulting challenges and implications for global governance. Design/methodology/approach The analysis of multiple blockchain applications in international finance, banking and insurance, supply chain management and logistics and marketing and advertising shows that the use of blockchain in international business has different impacts on global governance. Findings Although the protection of property rights can be improved and transaction costs can be reduced, the effects on other functions of global governance are more ambivalent. Research limitations/implications As a recommendation for future studies, the need for more multidisciplinary and empirical research is proposed. Practical implications As the technology disrupts business activities, it also affects the governance of these activities on a global scale. Suggestions for the future regulation of blockchain applications in international business are developed. Originality/value Blockchain technology has extended beyond the border of cryptocurrency and taken hold in various areas of international business. This study aims to analyze the impacts of blockchain on international business and the resulting challenges and implications for global governance. The application of blockchain technology in international business across multiple industries is explored in order to draw conclusions about its impacts on global governance. It is determined that blockchain brings about both challenges and benefits for global governance.

scholarly journals Why and how motives (still) matter

2015 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 15-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriel R.G. Benito
Keyword(s):  
Empirical Evidence ◽  
International Business ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Theory Building ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Further Development ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Internationalization Behavior

Purpose – The paper aims to provide a discussion of the relevance of motives for companies’ internationalization. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is a conceptual discussion building on established classifications of motives of internationalization, which distinguish between market-seeking, efficiency-seeking, resource-seeking and strategic asset-seeking motives. Findings – The analysis demonstrates that important issues in companies’ internationalization differ systematically across different types of motives, which implicates that motives remain relevant when analyzing various aspects of the internationalization of the firm. Motives are also useful elements for theory building in international business. Research limitations/implications – The analysis is purely conceptual and is not further substantiated by empirical evidence. Practical implications – The classification of motives is a useful tool for companies to analyze their strategic alternatives and actions, especially with regard to performance measurement. Originality/value – The paper demonstrates the importance of retaining a clear classification of motives as a basis for further development of a theory of firms’ internationalization behavior.

Changing representations of activists and activism in public relations textbooks

2019 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-30
Author(s):  
Philippa (Pip) Mules
Keyword(s):  
Public Relations ◽  
Community Of Practice ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Negative Influence ◽  
Critical Perspective ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Business Perspective ◽  
Knowledge And Practice ◽  
Emancipatory Practice ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to respond to Coombs and Holladay’s (2012a) concern that textbooks have had a powerful and negative influence on public relations’ curricula because they have positioned public relations as a function of business, rather than as a field of knowledge and practice that plays an emancipatory role in society.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is a diachronic, thematic analysis of public relations textbooks dating from 1981 to 2017. This methodology is valid because textbooks not only disseminate the knowledge base associated with a community of practice, but they are also influential legitimisers of curricula and bodies of knowledge.FindingsThe findings show that public relations textbooks are slowly evolving to include activist studies as a content area from both a strategic business perspective and a critical perspective.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample size is small but sufficient to indicate the beginnings of a trend. While the influence of textbooks on curricula is waning as students look beyond prescribed texts to a wider array of readings, they remain the most influential educational medium worldwide (Fuchs and Bock, 2018).Practical implicationsThe paper calls for a greater inclusion of activist studies in contemporary public relations curricula to prepare practitioners for changes to the communications environment, as well as an opportunity for public relations to reposition itself as an emancipatory field of knowledge and practice.Social implicationsActivism studies, as a curriculum field, provide a foundation for positioning public relations as an emancipatory practice.Originality/valueThe paper proposes that incorporating activism studies into public relations curricula is a way for public relations to reframe itself as a field of knowledge and practice that plays an emancipatory role in society.

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