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Theoretical dilemmas, conceptual review and perspectives disclosure of the sharing economy: a qualitative analysis

Author

Listed:
  • Manuel Sánchez-Pérez

    (University of Almeria)

  • Nuria Rueda-López

    (University of Almeria)

  • María Belén Marín-Carrillo

    (University of Almeria)

  • Eduardo Terán-Yépez

    (University of Almeria)

Abstract

The sharing economy (SE) has become a prominent theme in a broad variety of research domains in the last decade. With conceptions from an increasing range of theoretical perspectives, SE literature is disperse and disconnected, with a great proliferation of definitions and related terms which hinder organized and harmonious research. This study carries out a systematic literature review from 1978 to September 2020, uncovering 50 definitions as units of analysis. The authors, through a qualitative–interpretative analysis, review definitions, identify perspectives, and critically assess their conceptual nature on an evolutionary basis. Findings show that despite the SE has been extending its routes and approaches, it is far from a stock of conceptual grounds. The paper makes three contributions. First, we portray SE within a common evolutionary framework by developing it as a life cycle model. Second, we clarify the definitional and terminological jungle. And third, we suggest a new definition that can enrich the discussion.

Suggested Citation

  • Manuel Sánchez-Pérez & Nuria Rueda-López & María Belén Marín-Carrillo & Eduardo Terán-Yépez, 2021. "Theoretical dilemmas, conceptual review and perspectives disclosure of the sharing economy: a qualitative analysis," Review of Managerial Science, Springer, vol. 15(7), pages 1849-1883, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:rvmgts:v:15:y:2021:i:7:d:10.1007_s11846-020-00418-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s11846-020-00418-9
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Sharing economy; Systematic literature review; Qualitative interpretative analysis; Theory development; Umbrella concept;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M19 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Other
    • M30 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Marketing and Advertising - - - General
    • O35 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Social Innovation
    • L26 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Entrepreneurship

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