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Institutional voids and organization studies: Towards an epistemological rupture

Author

Listed:
  • Joel Bothello

    (Concordia University = Université Concordia [Montreal])

  • Robert S. Nason

    (Concordia University = Université Concordia [Montreal])

  • Gerhard Schnyder

    (Loughborough University)

Abstract

In this essay, we critique the usage of the term ‘institutional void' to characterize non-Western contexts in organizational studies. We explore how ‘conceptual stretching' of institutional voids – specifically, the theoretical and geographic expansion of the concept – has led not only to poor construct clarity, but also pejorative labelling of non-Western countries. We argue that research using this term perpetuates an ethnocentric bias by deifying market development and overlooking the richness and power of informal and non-market institutions in shaping local economic activity. We call for an ‘epistemological rupture' to decolonize organizational scholarship in non-Western settings and facilitate contextually grounded research approaches that allow for more indigenous theorization.

Suggested Citation

  • Joel Bothello & Robert S. Nason & Gerhard Schnyder, 2019. "Institutional voids and organization studies: Towards an epistemological rupture," Post-Print hal-05522678, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05522678
    DOI: 10.1177/0170840618819037
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Rachida Aïssaoui & Mohammed Bouznit & Ana Rosado-Feger, 2025. "Corruption’s Impacts on Entrepreneurial Rates and Entrepreneurial Outcomes: The Moderating Role of Collectivism," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 65(5), pages 789-820, October.
    2. Muhammad Abid & Joel Bothello & Shoaib Ul-Haq & Alireza Ahmadsimab, 2023. "The Morality of Informality: Exploring binary oppositions in counterfeit markets," Post-Print hal-05511786, HAL.
    3. Francis Sun, 2025. "The Cross Cultural Relativity of Institutional Environment for Economic Transaction Governance," Business and Management Studies, Redfame publishing, vol. 11(1), pages 1-15, June.

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