An Aristotelian approach to case study analysis

Journal of Business Ethics · 1993 · Volume 12 · Issue 7

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to apply Aristotle's theory of causation to the administrative realm in an attempt to provide the manager/student with a more complete basis for organizational analysis. The authors argue that the traditional approach to administrative case studies limits the manager's/student's perspective to the positivistic world view at the expense of a more encompassing perspective which can be achieved through the use of an Aristotelian approach. Aristotle's four-part theory of causation is juxtaposed with contemporary views of organizational ideology/philosophy, culture, climate and leadership, and staff or personnel. The Mazda automobile plant in Flat Rock, Michigan is provided as a sample case study to demonstrate the comprehensiveness of the Aristotelian method in organizational contexts.

Keywords

Economic Growth, Expense, Study Analysis, Traditional Approach, Organizational Context

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