Into the Great Wide Open: Bridging the Micro–Macro Divide in the Organizational Sciences

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this chapter is to establish some of the reasons why there exists a chasm between micro and macro disciplines of organizational sciences. We aim to suggest some fecund areas for bridging the gap between the micro and macro side of our science.

Methodology/Approach – In this chapter, we have polled our colleagues to ascertain the areas that they believe have the most potential to bridge the micro–macro divide. In addition, we have reviewed extant literature to identify some of the areas where bridging work has already started.

Findings – Through our survey and literature review, we have identified a number of areas which can help in narrowing the micro–macro divide.

Social Implications – By suggesting some ways to bridge the micro–macro divide, this chapter helps in setting future research agenda that will help in viewing organizational problems from multiple lenses. Our work also encourages the scholars from various disciplines to explore ways that can integrate the broad disciplines of organizational sciences.

Originality/Value of Paper – We have attempted to take the pulse of researchers in management disciplines concerning the chasm between micro and macro disciplines, and we have tried to integrate this information with the bridging research that has already been reported. Moreover, we have suggested a number of reasons why this gap is so difficult to remediate. We discuss how bridging the gap is connected to the way in which we train, develop, and reward nascent scholars in our field.

Citation

Buckley, M.R., Riaz Hamdani, M., Klotz, A.C. and Valcea, S. (2011), "Into the Great Wide Open: Bridging the Micro–Macro Divide in the Organizational Sciences", Bergh, D.D. and Ketchen, D.J. (Ed.) Building Methodological Bridges (Research Methodology in Strategy and Management, Vol. 6), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 31-68. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-8387(2011)0000006006