Has Strategic Management Shed the Normal Science Straightjacket?: Revisiting Bettis' (1991) Critiques

Abstract

In a 1991 essay, Bettis challenged strategic management researchers to break free of a ''normal science straightjacket." We consider the extent to which strategy research has addressed Bettis' five critiques in the intervening years. Based on examining 725 studies, we conclude that significant progress has been made in addressing two critiques, but that substantial challenges remain. Turning to the present, we identify two limitations in current research. Specifically, we suggest that conceptual fragmentation and methodological issues inhibit knowledge accumulation in the field.