Diversity research can learn from the mistakes made by the field of International Business
The field of International Business (IB) has flourished in an era of unprecedented globalization. But we now live in a time of de-globalization, and the discourse has shifted from differences between countries to differences within countries, leading to an increasing focus on diversity. At the same time old mistakes threaten to be repeated. Where previously IB emphasized the positive aspects of internationalization, now the mantra is that “diversity is good”. However, research has shown that diversity has both advantages and disadvantages. According to Prof. Niels Noorderhaven, both can benefit from a hermeneutic approach. This is the subject of his valedictory address, which he will deliver at Tilburg University on March 25.
Any attempt to establish a direct link between diversity and relevant outcome variables is doomed to fail, as we have too little knowledge of the intervening processes. Niels Noorderhaven proposes that hermeneutical inductive research can help us theorize such processes by enabling us to gain insight into the social construction of differences, whether these manifest themselves within or between countries. But since the rise of postmodernism suspicion has been cast on hermeneutics, as this perspective is purported to sweep under the carpet issues of power and domination. Noorderhaven pleas for resisting such “suspicion in the overdrive”, and for the restoration of confidence in the “good will” of the researcher.
Niels Noorderhaven has worked in different functions at Tilburg University since 1990. He was appointed professor of International Management in 1997, and has served at the School of Economics and Management in various leadership positions. His teaching and research has focused mainly on international management, strategy, organization theory, and qualitative research methods. He has participated in international development projects sponsored by UNIDO and the Dutch Ministry of Development Aid, and was principal researcher in, and scientific advisor to, major innovation programs in Dutch industry. Next to his work at Tilburg University he has been chair and member of various supervisory and advisory boards. Niels Noorderhaven is presently fellow and Chair of the Board of the European Academy of Management.
Note to editors
Professor Noorderhaven will deliver his speech in the Auditorium of Tilburg University at 16:15 hrs. on Friday, March 25, 2022.
For more information, please contact persvoorlichters@tilburguniversity.edu, tel. 013 - 466 4000.
A copy of the speech, titled International Business: A Field with a Future?, can be requested (under embargo) by email (persvoorlichters@tilburguniversity.edu) or by phone (+31 (0)13 466 4000).