Theories in the light of contingency and change: Possible future worlds and well-grounded hope as a supplement to truth

Abstract

Based on a critical account of the dominant concept of theory, the paper presents an alternative, wider notion of theory. It is motivated by the need to cope with a contingent research subject and the assumption that IS should provide an orientation for managing the digital transformation. Unlike neo-positivistic notions of theory, the proposed conception is not restricted to descriptions of the factual, but may be aimed at designing possible future worlds. Conceiving of possible future worlds requires overcoming the barriers created by language that constitutes our idea of the present world. The paper discusses the resulting methodological challenges and outlines how they might be addressed.