This document discusses key concepts in applying scientific thinking to management problems. It covers sources of knowledge, the essential tenets of science, ways to communicate arguments, the building blocks of theory including concepts, constructs, variables, propositions, hypotheses and theories. It also discusses understanding concepts, the role of hypotheses, what makes a good hypothesis, and the value of theory.
3. Chapter Two
APPLYING SCIENTIFIC
THINKING TO
MANAGEMENT PROBLEMS
2-3
4. Sources of Knowledge
• Empiricists attempt to describe, explain,
and make predictions through
observation
• Rationalists believe all knowledge can
be deduced from known laws or basic
truths of nature
• Authorities serve as important sources
of knowledge, but should be judged on
integrity and willingness to present a
2-4 balanced case
5. The Essential Tenets of Science
• Direct observation of phenomena
• Clearly defined variables, methods, and
procedures
• Empirically testable hypotheses
• Ability to rule out rival hypotheses
• Statistical justification of conclusions
• Self-correcting process
2-5
6. Ways to Communicate
• Exposition
– descriptive statements that merely state
and do not give reason
• Argument
– allows us to explain, interpret, defend,
challenge, and explore meaning
2-6
7. Important Arguments in Research
• Deduction is a form of inference that
purports to be conclusive
• Induction draws conclusions from one
or more particular facts
2-7
8. The Building Blocks of Theory
• Concepts
• Constructs
• Definitions
• Variables
• Propositions and Hypotheses
• Theories
• Models
2-8
9. Understanding Concepts
• A concept is a bundle of meanings or
characteristics associated with certain
events, objects, conditions, situations,
and behaviors
• Concepts have been developed over
time through shared usage
2-9
10. Understanding Concepts
• The success of research hinges on:
– how clearly we conceptualize
– how well others understand the
concepts we use
2-10
11. What is a Construct?
• A construct is an image or idea
specifically invented for a given research
and/or theory-building purpose.
2-11
13. The Role of the Hypothesis
• Guides the direction of the study
• Identifies facts that are relevant
• Suggests which form of research
design is appropriate
• Provides a framework for organizing the
conclusions that result
2-13
14. What is a Good Hypothesis?
• A good hypothesis should fulfill three
conditions:
– Must be adequate for its purpose
– Must be testable
– Must be better than its rivals
2-14
15. The Value of a Theory
• Narrows the range of facts we need to
study
• Suggests which research approaches
will yield the greatest meaning
• Suggests a data classification system
• Summarizes what is known about an
object of study
• Predicts further facts that should be
found
2-15