Collaboration between Management and Anthropology Researchers: Obstacles and Opportunities

Authors

Alex Stewart, Marquette UniversityFollow
Howard Aldrich, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

20 p.

Publication Date

5-1-2015

Publisher

Academy of Management

Source Publication

Academy of Management Perspectives

Source ISSN

1558-9080

Abstract

Management scholarship is built on a foundation imported from older disciplines, particularly economics, psychology and sociology. Anthropology also once played an important role in the history of management thought, and currently includes many “practicing” anthropologists who work in the private sector. Yet it now has a demonstrably marginal influence. Why is this so? What is the potential for greater collaboration with anthropology? Pursuing these questions, we draw upon recent writings in applied, business, and practicing anthropology. On this basis, we identify eight properties of anthropology that affect the potential for collaboration. For each property, we consider the extent to which it presents obstacles for management scholars to work together with practicing anthropologists. We find that most impediments can be overcome, with patience and preparation, and offer suggestions for greater collaboration.

Comments

Academy of Management Perspectives, Vol. 29, No. 2 (May 1, 2015): 173-192. DOI.

Recommended Citation

Stewart, Alex and Aldrich, Howard, "Collaboration between Management and Anthropology Researchers: Obstacles and Opportunities" (2015). Management Faculty Research and Publications. 162.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/mgmt_fac/162