Middle Range Organization Theorizing

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the nature of middle range organization theory, to identify some of its major strengths and limitations, and to suggest some guidelines for middle range theorizing. Role theory will be used as an illustration throughout the discussion. This area of theory has been identified as middle range by Merton (1968) and is likely to receive increased attention through the new edition (1978) of Katz and Kahn’s The Social Psychology of Organizations.