CRITICALLY EVALUATE AND SYNTHESIZE THEORIES AND CONCEPTS IN BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

Abstract

This research aims to deepen the ability to critically evaluate and synthesize theories and concepts in business and management—a key distinguishing feature of doctoral researchers. Theories and concepts are not taken-for-granted truths, but rather constructs of thought born within a specific context, with implicit assumptions and accompanying strengths and weaknesses. Critically evaluating means tracing their origins, examining their logical foundations, testing their suitability, and identifying their strengths and weaknesses. Synthesizing means bringing together the best insights from different theories into a more complete, deeper understanding that better explains complex business phenomena than any single theory alone. This research employs a critical review and theoretical synthesis approach. Several key theories in business and management are examined in depth, systematically evaluated, and then synthesized into a more complete and balanced framework of understanding. The analysis focuses on uncovering implicit assumptions, comparing views across theories, exploring points of convergence and conflict, and developing new insights that address the weaknesses of previous theories. The research findings demonstrate that seemingly contradictory theories often explain different aspects of the same reality. Critical evaluation reveals that the weaknesses of one theory can often be complemented by the strengths of another. The theoretical synthesis produced a richer, more balanced, and more robust understanding of dynamic business phenomena. A Critical Theory Evaluation and Synthesis Framework, along with a step-by-step guide, was developed that researchers can use to examine, assess, and synthesize various theories in the fields of business and management.