ADDRESSING THE RESEARCH PREDICAMENT: CHALLENGES FACED BY BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PHD CANDIDATES

Abstract

This abstract delves into the essence and purpose of scientific research within the domain of business administration. It questions the motivations that drive researchers and the significance of their work. Business administration, as an applied social science, is tasked with addressing real-world challenges and fostering the application of scientific knowledge to benefit communities. To underscore this perspective, the paper cites the influential opinion of Hauser (2017), asserting that management is an applied discipline with the potential to make a substantial impact.

The abstract further draws upon Tellis (2017) to emphasize the importance of commencing research by immersing oneself in the phenomenon, free from preconceived theories and models. It highlights the value of diverse worldviews and experiences in generating distinct interpretations and findings. The paper underscores the idea that the phenomenon resides in society, organizations, and social media, where observations yield insights, leading to the development of theories. However, the elusive nature of this phenomenon presents subjectivity challenges. To achieve objectivity, researchers must embark with a blank slate, conducting thorough literature reviews that may even challenge their initial hypotheses. This abstract posits that meaningful research should strive to unveil the objective truth rather than merely support preconceived notions.