Towards robust middle-range theories - a call to improve knowledge accumulation in transition studies

Abstract

In this perspective paper, we advocate strengthening knowledge accumulation within transition research and provide suggestions on how to achieve it. Over the past decade, many transition papers have proposed new frameworks, contributing to a growing theoretical diversity in the field, which has posed challenges for knowledge accumulation. We address this issue by mobilizing ideas from management studies, a field that has become (in)famous for its ‘obsession’ with theory. Building on three theory related goals used in the field of management, we explain how our field can foster knowledge accumulation through the creation of robust middle-range transition theories. We also consider what authors and reviewers can do to promote this aim.