Introduction to the approaches in comparative international management 1. Introduction to the approaches in comparative international management 1

Learning objectives understand the differences between universalistic and particularistic theories evaluate the use and usefulness of contingency theory assess the explanatory role of culture distinguish between emic and etic approaches to cultural analysis reflect critically upon the link between institutions and organization and management issues appreciate the differences between the two main institutional clusters appreciate the complexity of globalization research reflect upon the possible consequences of globalization

Chapter Outline 1.1 Introduction to the theory and research literature 1.2 Universalistic theories The contingency approach 1.3 Particularistic theories The cultural approach The institutional approach 1.4 Globalization 1.5 An integrative approach: societal analysis Study questions Further reading Notes References

Table 1.1 Mechanistic and organic organizations

Table 1.2 Assumptions

Study questions Explain the difference between universalistic and particularistic theories. What are the main arguments of the contingency approach, and how can this approach be reconciled with the cultural and institutional approaches? Explain the differences between the ‘emic’ and ‘etic’ approaches to cultural research. Assess under what conditions you would choose one or another type of research. Comment on the compatibility of, and the possibility of integrating the two approaches. Explain the importance of national institutions for management and organization. Explain the broad differences between the liberal and the coordinated institutional cluster. Explain how the concept of globalization could best be defined.