Metaphor and analogical reasoning in organization theory: Beyond orthodoxy

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Oswick, C; Keenoy, T; Grant, D
• 署名单位: University of London; University of Sydney
• 刊物名称: ACADEMY OF MANAGEMENT REVIEW
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0363-7425
• DOI: 10.2307/4134356
• 发表日期: 2002
• 页码: 294-303
• 关键词: PARADOX

摘要

This note concerns the creative potential of tropes in the process of analogical reasoning. We first suggest that metaphors (including metonymy and synecdoche) operate within the cognitive comfort zone of similarity. Thus, analogically, they are best seen as a means of elaborating and explicating existing knowledge. Second, we make the case for greater analytical attention to be paid to the so-called lesser tropes of anomaly, paradox, and irony, which are based on dissimilarity. These operate within the cognitive discomfort zone, open up genuine alternative possibilities, and, analogically, provide a more fruitful source of knowledge generation.