Disciplinary kingdoms: Navigating the politics of research philosophy in the information systems

Abstract

In this position paper, I discuss the intellectual politics of research philosophy in the field of Information Systems (IS). I make particular reference to the higher education landscape of South Africa, and attempt to trace personal and scholarly encounters with what I deem to be 'paradigmatic thinking'. The aim of the ensuing discussion is to deepen the understanding of the politics of paradigms, as instantiated in IS research teaching and philosophy. This discussion attempts to broaden existing discourse by considering the university of technology as an emerging player in IS research philosophy. In particular, I consider paradigmatic thinking as the emergence of Disciplinary Kingdoms within which academics navigate the sacred grounds of philosophy, and rule over these with epistemological authority. I discuss these dynamics critically, and argue for conceptual-critical undertakings in the research philosophy of IS that encourage autonomy, agency, and self-reflection.