A solution through praxis? Reflections about the ivory tower metaphor and the indissociability between theory and practice in organizational studies

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the current study is to use the Ivory Tower metaphor to discuss and question the false dichotomy between theory and practice, as well as the insufficient pragmatic and performative solution towards the market logic, and to problematize the concept of praxis as a possibility through critical approaches. Originality/gap/relevance/implications: 1. the Ivory Tower demonstrates the existence of a gap in the relation between theory and practice; 2. the essay is conducted according to critical approaches; 3. the Critical Theory has the potential to deconstruct the assigned and socially constructed meanings of the Ivory Tower. Key methodological aspects: This is a theoretical essay that dialectically explores the Ivory Tower metaphor. Summary of key results: 1. the organizational science linked to the instrumental logic makes no place for praxis; 2. the Traditional Theory does not allow thinking about the relation between theory and practice through praxis, because it polarizes such categories and gives primacy to practice by demanding performance and productivity from theory; 3. based on the Ivory Tower metaphor, it is necessary to make criticisms for the sake of praxis and not for the sake of the practice understood just as technical and instrumental utility. Key considerations/conclusions: We pursuit solutions to remove the dichotomies that take the dialectical nature away from reality; it is necessary (re)constructing new ways to get in and out of the tower on behalf of emancipation, in the permanent and inseparable relation between theory and practice.