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Approaches for the experimental examination of the dialectic
Author(s) -
Cosier Richard A.
Publication year - 1983
Publication title -
strategic management journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 11.035
H-Index - 286
eISSN - 1097-0266
pISSN - 0143-2095
DOI - 10.1002/smj.4250040108
Subject(s) - dialectic , operationalization , field (mathematics) , management science , epistemology , task (project management) , computer science , engineering ethics , sociology , psychology , economics , management , engineering , philosophy , mathematics , pure mathematics
A great deal of attention has focused on the potential benefits of the dialectic during strategic decision making. Some field studies have shown favourable perceptions of the dialectic. Exclusive use of field studies, however, is inadequate for a comprehensive evaluation of the dialectic. Controlled studies in the laboratory and the field are needed. Operationalizing the dialectic and measuring its effectiveness in controlled settings has been the subject of debate. This paper reviews three controlled approaches—lens model studies, creative task experiments, and case studies. The applicability of these approaches to dialectical research is discussed. Basic assumptions underlying controlled research are that the dialectic can be created in controlled settings and its effectiveness can be measured in terms of better decisions.