Critical realism and organizational learning

• Published in: The learning organization Vol. 28; no. 1; pp. 32 - 45
• Main Authors: Brøns Kringelum, Louise, Brix, Jacob
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bradford Emerald Publishing Limited 13.05.2021; Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• Subjects: Critical Theory; Educational Research; Empiricism; Employee behavior; Epistemology; Idealism; Knowledge; Learning; Learning Theories; Ontology; Organizational Learning; Organizational Theories; Philosophy of science; Realism; Researchers; Traditions; Exploration and exploitation; Theory of science; Critical realist; Organizational learning; Critical realism
• ISSN: 0969-6474; 1758-7905
• DOI: 10.1108/TLO-03-2020-0035

Purpose This study aims to investigate the implications of applying critical realism to the study of organizational learning. It considers critical realism as an alternate theoretical science foundation to the domains of empirical realism and social constructivism that characterize most of the field of organizational learning. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts the approach of a philosophical/conceptual discussion. Findings This study finds that the critical realist approach makes it possible for organizational learning researchers to apply a prescriptive change agenda. It requires researchers to study the context in which organizational learning occurs. These two features enable the researcher to propose what the world must be like for organizational learning to occur. Hence, a critical realist foundation moves organizational learning theory a step closer to its theoretical sibling, the learning organization. Originality/value This study reveals the potential in applying critical realism to the study of organizational learning and identifies its related strengths.