A Paradox Lens on International Business: A round-table discussion on how to incorporate paradox theorizing in international business

Abstract:
The complexity, multiplexity and dynamism of the international business environment makes the study of international business particularly challenging (Eden & Nielsen, 2020). Ongoing political, technological, and cultural change throughout the world suggests that this challenge will be even greater in the future. As divergent ideologies collide, artificial intelligence evolves, and physical environmental conditions deteriorate, the international business environment is propelled into unprecedented and often contradictory directions. Do we as international business scholars have the set of theoretical tools needed to address this challenge? Although paradox theory has gained significant influence in organization studies, it is still sparsely used in international business studies. In this panel we bring together a group of scholars who have been pioneering a paradox lens as both a theoretical and a metatheoretical approach to deal with the persistent and interdependent contradictions that increasingly characterize the international business environment. The panel members will discuss examples of how paradox theory can enhance our understanding of international business topics, such as international leadership, international stakeholders, global supply chains, and international joint ventures. The intention thereby is not merely to revisit past accomplishments but to encourage an open dialogue about future possibilities for paradox theory in IB.