• Journal article

Case Study Research on Innovation Systems: Paradox, Dialectical Analysis and Resolution

Fragkandreas, T. 2025. Forthcoming. Case Study Research on Innovation Systems: Paradox, Dialectical Analysis and Resolution. Research Policy. Forthcoming.

TitleCase Study Research on Innovation Systems: Paradox, Dialectical Analysis and Resolution
TypeJournal article
AuthorsFragkandreas, T.
Abstract

This paper deals with a largely unnoticed methodological paradox concerning the scientific status of case study research on innovation systems (ISs). While case study
research constitutes the methodological catalyst to the genesis and establishment of the ISs approach as one of the most widely used theoretical and policy-relevant perspectives
on innovation in the social sciences, many ISs scholars believe that this type of research can not infer causality and generality. To heighten our understanding of, as well as
resolve, such an enduring methodological tension, this paper utilises the dialectical method, particularly the analytical triad of thesis, antithesis and synthesis. It shows that
the paradox is attributable to the absence of a compelling antithesis to the deductive thesis, wherein (and grounded in the hypothetico-deductive model of science) case study
research on ISs is incapable of drawing causal, generalisable knowledge. In line with a growing number of critical realist studies on innovation, the paper employs the realist
mode of scientific explanation known as retroduction as a means by which to articulate the retroductive antithesis, whereby case study research on ISs is necessary to learn
about the general aspects of causality, and especially causal mechanisms. The dialectical tension between the two antagonistic theses culminates into an original methodological perspective – the detroductive synthesis, wherein the ability of case study research on ISs
to study causality and generality depends mainly upon the model of science that, either explicitly or implicitly, informs the analysis. Overall, the present paper not only resolves the case study paradox but also enables innovation researchers to reimagine and conduct case study research in a stand-alone, paradox-free, causal explanatory and generalisable way. Thought-provoking implications for the peer-review process and innovation policy evaluation are also discussed.

KeywordsInnovation systems, Case study research, Paradox, Dialectic, Deduction, Retroduction, Detroduction
JournalResearch Policy
Journal citationForthcoming
ISSN0048-7333
Year2025
PublisherElsevier
Accepted author manuscript
License
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
File Access Level
Open (open metadata and files)
Publisher's version
File Access Level
Open (open metadata and files)

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