'First things first': The AMS Review - Sheth Foundation 2020 annual doctoral competition for conceptual articles

摘要

A theoretical contribution is the cornerstone of all doctoral dissertation research. However, while a doctoral thesis usually involves considerable conceptual development, relatively few doctoral students seek to publish conceptual-only articles as compared to empirical articles. In parallel, marketing acade-mia is increasingly calling for conceptual articles that focus on building and extending theory (Maclnnis 2011; Jaakkola this issue), and these papers are often highly cited. A conceptual paper is an avenue through which the researcher can critique the existing literature, position their research in an ongoing theoretical conversation, demonstrate their original theoretical contribution to the field, and build the foundation for further research, including empirical research (Barney this issue); all key stages in a doctoral dissertation. Why then do we not see more conceptual-only papers published from dissertation research? Perhaps some students do not know it is an option; some may not perceive they have the skills or capability; while others just do not know where to begin. Yadav (this issue) advocates that it is imperative that conceptual theory development is placed at the core of the curriculum in doctoral programs, as it shapes the thinking, priorities, and research efforts of new scholars. However, in many doctoral programs, this emphasis is lacking. This Special Section of the AMS Review provides some foundation-al papers that should form part of all doctoral student education. However, to further encourage more conceptual articles to emerge from doctoral dissertations there remains a need to nurture and showcase the outstanding conceptual articles that doctoral students contribute in marketing.