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James Gardner March: Founder of organization theory, decision theorist, and advocate of sensible foolishness

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  • Starbuck, William H.

Abstract

James G. March helped to create organization theory and a “behavioral theory of the firm”, and he contributed very important insights about decision making and organizational learning. His articles challenge prevalent assumptions and rely on casual observation rather than systematic empiricism. His influence demonstrates the power of conceptualization and creative logic, and examples that capture the imaginations of listeners and readers.

Suggested Citation

  • Starbuck, William H., 2013. "James Gardner March: Founder of organization theory, decision theorist, and advocate of sensible foolishness," European Management Journal, Elsevier, vol. 31(1), pages 88-92.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eurman:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:88-92
    DOI: 10.1016/j.emj.2012.11.001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nils Brunsson, 1982. "The Irrationality Of Action And Action Rationality: Decisions, Ideologies And Organizational Actions," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 19(1), pages 29-44, January.
    2. James G. March, 1991. "Exploration and Exploitation in Organizational Learning," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 2(1), pages 71-87, February.
    3. William H Starbuck & Philippe Baumard, 2005. "Learning From Failures: Why It May Not Happen," Post-Print hal-03228735, HAL.
    4. Armen A. Alchian, 1950. "Uncertainty, Evolution, and Economic Theory," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 58(3), pages 211-211.
    5. R. L. Hall & C. J. Hitch, 1939. "Price Theory And Business Behaviour," Oxford Economic Papers, Oxford University Press, vol. 0(1), pages 12-45.
    6. Daniel A. Levinthal & James G. March, 1993. "The myopia of learning," Strategic Management Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 14(S2), pages 95-112, December.
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    Cited by:

    1. Wang, I. Kim & Qian, Lihong & Lehrer, Mark, 2017. "From technology race to technology marathon: A behavioral explanation of technology advancement," European Management Journal, Elsevier, vol. 35(2), pages 187-197.

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