Paradigms in Qualitative IB Research: Trend, Analysis and Recommendations: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11575-024-00529-5

This paper examines trends, challenges, and opportunities for qualitative IB research. We examine how the reliance on positivism has influenced the use of alternative paradigms (e.g., social constructivism, critical realism and interpretivism) and, consequently, the use of qualitative methods. Using mixed methods to collect and analyze data on qualitative articles published in International Business Review, Journal of International Business Studies, Journal of World Business, and Management International Review, we examine differences between the dominant positivist paradigm and the alternative ones and use comparative content analysis to investigate how alternative paradigm papers are conceptualized and presented. Moreover, we interview authors who used alternative paradigms to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities they faced when conducting research using alternative paradigms. We argue that alternative paradigms can help IB innovate and generate groundbreaking research while providing social impact, managerial and practical relevance, and promoting diversity. We, therefore, encourage paradigmatic diversity and awareness. Lastly, we provide prescriptions for IB scholars to understand methodology and examine complex IB phenomena vis-a-vis paradigmatic diversity.