Antecedents and implications of uncertainty in management: A historical perspective

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the antecedents of environmental uncertainty in management using a historical framework. The goal of developing passion and compassion in management practice and research cannot be achieved unless a better understanding is developed of the main challenge facing researchers and practitioners – uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The antecedents of uncertainty in management are explored using a historical framework. This enables the generation of insights into the nature and use of uncertainty over the decades.

Findings

The importance of environmental uncertainty is escalating. The paper's historical, philosophical and critical view helps scholars explain and interpret uncertainty within their own research and formulate new research questions.

Originality/value

Understanding the epistemological assumptions underlying paradigms will better enable researchers and practitioners to face a future filled with uncertainty and equivocality.

Citation

Chawla, C., Mangaliso, M., Knipes, B. and Gauthier, J. (2012), "Antecedents and implications of uncertainty in management: A historical perspective", Journal of Management History, Vol. 18 No. 2, pp. 200-218. https://doi.org/10.1108/17511341211206852