CRITICAL THEORY AND EMPIRICAL STUDIES IN IS RESEARCH: THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

摘要

This paper considers the theoretical relationship between critical theory and empirical research work; the aim being to provide a conceptual framework to assist the critical researcher in devising apposite research strategies and programmes. The paper begins by exploring the context in which IS development takes place from a critical perspective. A new paradigm for IS research-encompassing both critical and empirical facets of IS research - is then developed. It is argued that critical models of empirical studies may be developed ? Employing the negative dialectical strategy - to enhance the critical IS research process. These will be models produced by IS researchers, informed partly by empirical studies, who take critical subjectivity seriously. It is concluded that the development and refinement of such models - which can, again, be informed by empirical studies - is the main challenge for the critical IS researcher.