Broadening Business and Society Research: A Postscript on the Limits of Strategic Action

Abstract

In this paper, I applaud but also critique the project to integrate the literatures on stakeholders, non-market strategy, and social movements under the umbrella of business and society. My main concern is that some may perceive this integrative effort as hinging on a kind of applied economic imagery of actors and interests that valorizes instrumental, strategic action. Building on scholarship at the interface of social movements and organizations, I argue for the fruitfulness of a broader institutional approach to business and society.

Citation

Lounsbury, M. (2018), "Broadening Business and Society Research: A Postscript on the Limits of Strategic Action", Briscoe, F., King, B.G. and Leitzinger, J. (Ed.) Social Movements, Stakeholders and Non-Market Strategy (Research in the Sociology of Organizations, Vol. 56), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 369-382. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0733-558X20180000056014