- Summary
- Contents
This investigation of the fundamental character of organizational identity and identification with an organization is arranged in the form of a provocative discussion between key scholars. The book focuses on three different paradigmatic views of identity: functionalist, interpretive and postmodern. Similarities and distinctions among these ways of understanding are explored, and numerous theoretical and practical insights are gained. The book concludes with a discussion of the relevance of identity as a construct in organizational study, and observations on conversation and theory building.
Chapter 9: Postscript: Observations on Conversation as a Theory-Building Methodology
Postscript: Observations on Conversation as a Theory-Building Methodology
In early September, 1994, Hal Gregerson knocked on my office door and asked me if I would like to attend the “Organizational Identity” conference being held that weekend. As a freshly minted PhD, I was not richly steeped in organizational identity, but I was intrigued by the construct of organizational identity because it linked well with other interests I had at the time (interests that have continued to develop). Also, the identity conference would give a young faculty member the chance to rub shoulders with some very sharp people in organization science. Identity encompasses a broad range of organizational topics (such as commitment, culture, strategy, and structure) and also ...
