A history of organization studies as a segmented field: Interpretations of the case of Norway

Abstract

The field of organization studies is presented, exemplified by the case of Norway, as having developed in the form of seven segments, each representing a quite independent start of activity in the field and developing in separation from the others. Each segment is supported by a set of actors, who represent specific interests and values, including perceptions of what constitutes ‘organization studies’ and what a ‘valuable contribution’ to the field may mean. Contact between the segments has been limited, and there has until recently been difficult to organize conferences within this field of study.The identity of researchers has been that of ‘sociology’,‘political science’, etc., and not ‘organization theory’. It may be misleading to see the field of organization studies as unitary, and it is important to see the contribution by actors outside of Academia, to whom this field is not just an academic discipline, but also a basis for action in various contexts.