Critical management studies in postmodernity: oxymorons in outer space?

Abstract

Critical Management Studies (CMS) in Postmodernity (PM) has been playfully posed as a double oxymoron, i.e. “CMS” to examine the contradiction of an emancipatory discourse predominantly cast in a managerialist tenor; “CMS in PM” to examine the feasibility of taking any position at all in the context postmodern theorizing. Using playful references to Darth Vader’s pursuit of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, proceeds with a deconstruction of the critical theorists’ pursuit of metatheories to explain (true) oppressions to be addressed in the liberation of victims. Teases the postmodernist magical elimination of victims in their discourse of difference. Sadly though, the elimination of “victims” in theorizing does not mean racism, sexism, and economic oppression are no longer experienced by human beings. Takes a light‐hearted but serious approach in regaining the emancipatory potential of Critical Management Studies to inform organizational change.