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Conducting Research in International Business Through a Complex Adaptive Systems Lens

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  • Sokol Celo

    (Suffolk University)

  • Mark Lehrer

    (Suffolk University)

Abstract

This paper responds to growing calls within the international business (IB) research community for methodological innovation to better address the field’s inherent complexity. It explores how insights drawn from complexity science—particularly the concept of complex adaptive systems—can enhance IB research. Through a review of relevant literature and case studies, the paper demonstrates how complexity theory can inform new research paradigms and schools of thought in IB. At the same time, it argues that even a basic understanding of complexity theory can help IB scholars achieve greater conceptual clarity and develop more robust theoretical explanations in their ongoing work.

Suggested Citation

  • Sokol Celo & Mark Lehrer, 2025. "Conducting Research in International Business Through a Complex Adaptive Systems Lens," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 65(4), pages 767-788, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:manint:v:65:y:2025:i:4:d:10.1007_s11575-025-00588-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s11575-025-00588-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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