1. Introduction to the approaches in comparative international management1.
Introduction to the approaches in comparative international management 1

2. 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

3. 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

4. Table 1.1 Mechanistic and organic organizations

5. Table 1.2 Assumptions

6. 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.