Knowledge and Action in Management Research

The following discussion agenda is on "Knowledge and Action" in Management Research:

1. Instrumental approach (IA) to management vs Evolutionary approach (EA) to management
• IA: emphasis on design and accuracy; knowledge has to be established before action
• EA: emphasis on learning  and progressive approximation; action is the best way to gain knowledge in organizations; 'discovery by doing' view
2. Habermas: different research philosophies have their own proper sphere of relevance.
3. Management knowledge is sometimes more weighted towards its application in practice; at other times, it is more weighted toward the creation of generalised material.
4. Kant: knowledge without action is empty; action without knowledge is blind.

Reference
Griseri, P. (2002) "Knowledge and Action in Management Research" Management Knowledge: A Critical View, Palgrave.