Not Either/Or: Research in Pasteur's Quadrant

Abstract

This paper suggests that when we debate binary choices for IS research, such as rigor/relevance or theory/practice, we constrain our vision and limit the impact of our efforts. An alternative view- point considers research in a two-dimensional space based on motivation, enabling us to envision research that seeks both understanding and practical use. The paper reviews the historical prece- dence in the U.S. for the unidimensional view of research, presents examples of the recursive relationship between scientific and technical progress, and concludes with implications for focus- ing on research in the “both-and” quadrant.