Capturing Causal Complexity: Heuristics for Configurational Theorizing

Furnari, Santi, Crilly, D, Misangyi, Vilmos F., Greckhamer, Thomas, Fiss, Peer C. and Aguilera, Ruth (2021) Capturing Causal Complexity: Heuristics for Configurational Theorizing. Academy of Management Review, 46 (4). pp. 778-799. ISSN 0363-7425

Abstract

Management scholars study phenomena marked by complex interdependencies where multiple explanatory factors combine to bring about an outcome of interest. Yet, theorizing about causal complexity can prove challenging for the correlational theorizing that is predominant in the field of management, given its “net effects thinking” that emphasizes the unique contribution of individual explanatory factors. In contrast, configurational theories and thinking are well-suited to explaining causally complex phenomena. In this article, we seek to advance configurational theorizing by providing a model of the configurational theorizing process which consists of three iterative stages—scoping, linking and naming. In each stage, we develop and offer several heuristics aimed at stimulating configurational theorizing. That is, these theorizing heuristics are intended to help scholars discover configurations of explanatory factors, probe the connections among these factors, and articulate the orchestrating themes that underpin their coherence. We conclude with a discussion of how configurational theorizing advances theory development in the field of management and organizations, and beyond.

More Details

[error in script]
Item Type: Article
Subject Areas: Organisational Behaviour
Additional Information:

© 2020 Academy of Management

Date Deposited: 16 Jun 2020 08:57
Subjects: Management science
Last Modified: 28 Mar 2024 02:40
URI: https://lbsresearch.london.edu/id/eprint/1428
[error in script] More

Export and Share


Download

Full text not available from this repository.

Statistics

Altmetrics
View details on Dimensions' website

Downloads from LBS Research Online

View details

Actions (login required)

Edit Item Edit Item