Reflection on Writing a Theory Paper: How to Theorize for the Future
Young, Amber Grace, Majchrzak, Ann, Kane, Gerald C.
Journal of the Association for Information Systems · 2021 · Volume 22 · Issue 5
Abstract
This manuscript describes our experiences writing a future-oriented, next-generation theory. We provide advice for other theory authors and for reviewers of theory papers. Our advice relates to theorizing challenges as well as the practical and logistical challenges associated with publishing a theory paper. We conclude by calling attention to areas that warrant greater attention from IS researchers and by describing opportunities for future-oriented theoretical and empirical research. We explain how future-oriented approaches to speculative design and radical reimagining can inform new IS theories. Future-oriented approaches to forecasting and scenario-based research can be leveraged in empirical studies. We hope this editorial will inspire others to theorize and conduct research with an eye to the future. We argue that successful future-oriented research will consider possible futures that are high-likelihood and/or high-risk/reward, and will equip the IS discipline going forward, whatever future may arise.
Keywords
Theorizing, Next-Generation Theory, Future, Emancipatory Design Theory
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