Critical engagement in international business: creating meaning for a broad constituency

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a personal reflection on the nature of international business (IB) as a field of both academic study and business practice and, specifically, a domain of political action and societal impact.

Design/methodology/approach

The author summarizes what he consider to be his personal contributions to the field of IB over the 15 years of Critical Perspectives on International Business’s existence, to underpin a set of critically reflective questions on the nature of IB, and to inform a brief ‘manifesto’ for how the author envisages a meaningful future for IB research.

Findings

The argumentation of this paper is directed at supporting IB research and activity that is underpinned by an Aristotelian phronetic perspective – thinking to inform action for the good of society at large.

Originality/value

This paper presents an original perspective from the author, one that appreciates the multitude of perspectives, values and beliefs of the full range of stakeholders who might impact or be impacted by IB activity.

Citation

Cairns, G.M. (2019), "Critical engagement in international business: creating meaning for a broad constituency", Critical Perspectives on International Business, Vol. 15 No. 2/3, pp. 262-272. https://doi.org/10.1108/cpoib-01-2019-0004