The Dormant Potential of Neoinstitutionalism

The DFG-Network is organised and led by:

• Dr. Stefan Kirchner
• Dr. Anne K. Krüger
• Dr. Frank Meier
• Dr. Uli Meyer

Here you can find all members of the network

Objectives of the Network

Neoinstitutionalism is one of the leading theories organisation studies. Starting from empirical problems this theoretical approach of Neoinstitutionalism contributed to our understanding of organisations in multiple ways. Currently, Neoinstitutionalism addresses three problems in particular:

1. Tensions between heterogeneous institutional logics,
2. Meaning of meso-order such as organisational fields,
3. Questions of micro-foundation of institutional change. While inducing a significant expansion of employing this approach, emphasising these problem statements has also contributed to a loss of theoretical coherence.

Hence a precise, theoretical foundation appears essential, especially in order to secure the applied relevance of this approach in a sustainable manner. This scientific network focuses on the following key objectives:

1. Analysis of current concepts of organisational fields, logics, and institutional work in terms if underlying theoretical frameworks, deficits as well as potential of application,
2. Exploration of a stronger foundation of these concepts in existing social theories, and based on this,
3. Theoretical advancement of these concepts while considering micro-, meso-, and macro levels. The developed concepts should provide for novel theoretical explanatory potential for empirical phenomena. The results are supposed to/expected to be published in a collective volume and should contribute to the theory’s advancement in the long run.