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Theorizing from the extreme

Author

Listed:
  • Florence Allard-Poesi

    (IRG - Institut de Recherche en Gestion - UPEM - Université Paris-Est Marne-la-Vallée - UPEC UP12 - Université Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne - Paris 12)

  • Jan Dul

Abstract

Is it possible to advance a theoretical argument based on a strong logical inference from a single, disaster case? What can be the contributions of such analytical strategy? The article develops a method for analyzing data from a disaster case to contribute to theory development for ‘normal' organizational functioning. We propose a method inspired by Mackie's (1965) concept of INUS: An Insufficient but Necessary factor in a collection of factors that is Unnecessary but Sufficient for the effect. The method allows us to distinguish between essential (causal) and anecdotal factors in the analysis of events, actions and cognitions that result in a sudden extreme and undesired outcome (e.g., a disaster). It identifies the causal chain that consists of collections of factors that were sufficient to lead to the disaster, and develops theoretical propositions about the conditions that can avoid such disaster. The contributions of the research are threefold. First, we show that a single, disaster case can be used to develop a strong theoretical argument which specifies causality among factors. Second, complementing prior qualitative analytical strategies, we propose a method that helps to identify the chain of collections of factors that were sufficient to precipitate the organization into the disaster. Third, we provide step-by-step guidelines to graphically represent the process under analysis.

Suggested Citation

  • Florence Allard-Poesi & Jan Dul, 2020. "Theorizing from the extreme," Post-Print hal-03907058, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-03907058
    as

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