Dear all,
We cordially invite you to the presenter symposium:
ADDRESSING GRAND CHALLENGES WITH INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH:
THE CRITICAL ROLE OF POWER
The symposium is scheduled for presentation as part of the Academy of
Management conference on 7 August 2017 (4:45-6:15 PM) in the Atrium A705
room of the Atlanta Marriott Marquis. It is sponsored by the CMS, OMT, and
SIM divisions at the AOM.
Symposium Presenters:
Joel Gehman (University of Alberta)
Johanna Mair (Hertie School of Governance)
Kamal Munir (University of Cambridge)
Florian Überbacher (University of Zurich)
Symposium Discussants:
Royston Greenwood (University of Alberta)
Andreas Georg Scherer (University of Zurich)
Abstract:
This symposium focuses on how grand challenges (such as the reduction of
poverty and inequalities or the promotion of environmental sustainability)
can be addressed by taking an institutional theory perspective, and it puts
particular emphasis on the role of power in this regard. Taking an
institutional theory lens for the study of grand challenges has the
advantage of both improving our understanding of grand challenges and of
further developing theory. In this symposium, we will focus on the role of
investigating different forms of power for making institutional theory
particularly appropriate and relevant for the study of grand challenges. In
particular, we will critically evaluate (1) what the types and
constellations of systemic forms of power are that underpin grand
challenges, and (2) what types and constellations of episodic forms of
power are necessary to tame and resolve grand challenges. The format we are
proposing will create an environment of active debate among scholars with
an interest in grand challenges, institutional research, and theories of
power.
Yours sincerely,
Symposium chairs and organizers:
Florian Überbacher (University of Zurich)
Giuseppe Delmestri (WU Vienna University of Economics and Business)
Elizabeth Goodrick (Florida Atlantic University)