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Re‐evaluation of underlying assumptions and refocusing of objectives in criticisms of international business

Scott A. Hipsher (Bangkok University, Bangkok, Thailand)

Critical Perspectives on International Business

ISSN: 1742-2043

Article publication date: 1 April 2006

2135

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to address the question of what it means to be critical in relationship to international business.

Design/methodology/approach

Explores the underlying assumptions and objectives in the debates involving international business and trade.

Findings

The emotional aspects of the debate have resulted in obscuring the objectives and underlying assumptions of those involved in the discussions. It is proposed that the underlying assumptions are reevaluated and there is a refocusing of objectives in order to produce more productive results from being critical of international business. The debate should resume with an acceptance of well established principles supported by decades of empirical research and history by all parties and the debate should focus on the actual practices of international businesses in an attempt to make international trade work for all rather than attacking international business as an institution.

Originality/value

Explores the overlooked underlying assumptions and differing objectives of those involved in criticizing international business. Focusing on the prime objective of being critical of international business, lessening poverty around the world, rather than on the debate and one's perceived opponents, will lead to academia better fulfilling its role of being an objective observer and reporter of international business activities in the debate and lessen the risk of academia becoming a biased participant.

Keywords

Citation

Hipsher, S.A. (2006), "Re‐evaluation of underlying assumptions and refocusing of objectives in criticisms of international business", Critical Perspectives on International Business, Vol. 2 No. 2, pp. 114-127. https://doi.org/10.1108/17422040610661299

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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