A critique of statistical modelling in management science from a critical realist perspective: its role within multimethodology

The critical realist critique of quantitative modelling, as exemplified by multivariate statistics, is explored, and it is argued that its grounds must be re-conceptualized within a multimethodological framework.

Abstract

Management science was historically dominated by an empiricist philosophy that saw quantitative modelling and statistical analysis as the only legitimate research method. More recently interpretive or constructivist philosophies have also developed employing a range of non-quantitative methods. This has sometimes led to divisive debates. “Critical realism” has been proposed as a philosophy of science that can potentially provide a synthesis in recognizing both the value and limitations of these approaches. This paper explores the critical realist critique of quantitative modelling, as exemplified by multivariate statistics, and argues that its grounds must be re-conceptualised within a multimethodological framework.