Title: Methodological approaches to research in China

Authors: Martin Sposato

Addresses: Department of Leadership, Work and Organisations, Business School, Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK

Abstract: The growth of China as an economic power house capable of challenging Western economic domination has become a reality in recent years, causing both research pertaining to the area and Chinese management to grow within academia. Yet, as these areas have expanded, so too have the numerous approaches towards the topics. The purpose of this paper is to critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of those approaches and to ultimately provide a guide for improved theory and academic research in this area of international business management. There are two main trends in research methodology within the context of management in China: a 'theory of Chinese management' and a 'Chinese management theory'. These theories are described and their prominence is highlighted through a critical review of the literature. Ultimately, the paper argues for the correct contextualisation of the case and inclusion of emic elements regardless of the approach towards research.

Keywords: China; research methodology; Chinese management; management theory; cross-cultural research; international business management; management research.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCCM.2015.070355

International Journal of Chinese Culture and Management, 2015 Vol.3 No.4, pp.403 - 412

Received: 26 Nov 2014
Accepted: 22 May 2015
Published online: 02 Jul 2015 *

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