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Translation Theory ‘Translated’: Three Perspectives on Translation in Organizational Research

Author

Listed:
  • Wæraas , Arild

    (School of Economics and Business, Norwegian University of Life Sciences)

  • Agger Nielsen, Jeppe

    (Aalborg University)

Abstract

Translation theory has proved to be a versatile analytical lens used by scholars working from different traditions. On the basis of a systematic literature review, this study adds to our understanding of the ‘translations’ of translation theory by identifying the distinguishing features of the most common theoretical approaches to translation within the organization and management discipline: actor-network theory, knowledge-based theory, and Scandinavian institutionalism. Although each of these approaches already has borne much fruit in research, the literature is diverse and somewhat fragmented, but also overlapping. We discuss the ways in which the three versions of translation theory may be combined and enrich each other so as to inform future research, thereby offering a more complete understanding of translation in and across organizational settings.

Suggested Citation

  • Wæraas , Arild & Agger Nielsen, Jeppe, 2015. "Translation Theory ‘Translated’: Three Perspectives on Translation in Organizational Research," Working Paper Series 16-2015, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, School of Economics and Business.
    • Handle: RePEc:hhs:nlsseb:2015_016
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Organizational translation; knowledge translation; actor-network theory; Scandinavian institutionalism;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D23 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Organizational Behavior; Transaction Costs; Property Rights
    • D73 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Bureaucracy; Administrative Processes in Public Organizations; Corruption
    • Z10 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - General

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