Pushing the frontiers of critical international business studies

Boussebaa, M. and Morgan, G. (2014) Pushing the frontiers of critical international business studies. Critical Perspectives on International Business, 10(1/2), pp. 96-106. (doi: 10.1108/cpoib-11-2013-0046)

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Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to discuss the context- and power-sensitive approach to the study of multinationals that has emerged in the last decade, argues for the need to supplement it by a clearer focus on the wider geopolitical context in which multinationals operate and outlines the implications for the development of IB research in this area. Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides a summary overview of context- and power-sensitive studies of multinationals before proposing a research agenda for the next decade. In particular, it argues for the need to combine the institutionalist angle taken by context/power analyses with post-colonial theory as a means of bringing geopolitics into the study of multinationals, a task that CPoIB is well positioned to accomplish. Findings – The paper identifies a lack of “criticality” in context/power research and, in particular, a lack of attention to the neo-imperial character of multinationals with specific regards to their management and organisation. Research limitations/implications – The implications of this paper are that the nature of contemporary multinationals is further illuminated, especially their role in (re-)producing (neo-)imperial relations in a supposedly post-colonial world. Further, the paper suggests an agenda for future research on the relationship between imperialism and multinationals. Originality/value – The value of the paper is in drawing together more closely the study of multinationals as organizational structures and political systems with the history of imperialism and contemporary post-colonial theorising.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Boussebaa, Professor Mehdi
Authors: Boussebaa, M., and Morgan, G.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Management
Journal Name:Critical Perspectives on International Business
Publisher:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
ISSN:1742-2043
ISSN (Online):1758-6062
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2014 Emerald Group Publishing
First Published:First published in Critical Perspectives on International Business 10(1/2): 96-106
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

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