Debating Business School Legitimacy

This book channels the debate on the relevance, value, and future of business schools. Could the Business School be like the Titanic, thought to be unsinkable, but ultimately doomed? And if it sinks, what of it? Or is it a ship which can adapt to the changing waters it sails in? In this book, authors from around the world debate the current and future legitimacy of the Business School from different contexts and perspectives. While some see very little or no hope at all to the future of the Business School as a legitimate centre for research and education, others remain critical, but see a way forward to rectify today’s concerns, such as around sustainability and inclusivity. This book highlights to readers thought-provoking complexities on the Business School playground and its legitimacy.

“This important and sobering collection of essays on the modern business school will provoke debate and may inspire needed change. If you believe, as I do, that today’s professional schools have an obligation to help address society’s most pressing challenges through the pursuit of actionable research and practical education, you will find much value in this book.” (Amy C. Edmondson, Professor, Harvard Business School, USA)

“An intriguing read, this book offers different perspectives on the raging debate, with only one solitary defence of the business school as is, despite the criticisms. Provocative in parts but nonetheless evoking questions for business school leaders to reflect upon in deciding what to change to regain legitimacy where deemed lost; or what to retain to defend the status quo where deemed apt. Brilliant!” (Enase Okonedo, Professor, Vice-Chancellor, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, Nigeria)

“Business schools have become a key part of the landscape ofcontemporary higher education. However, their role is proving increasingly controversial. This book demonstrates why this is so and what needs to change. This includes a broader definition of purpose beyond a focus on helping individuals and corporations to maximize only their own self-interest. Business schools need to demonstrate that they can become part of the solution to the excesses of a Darwinian form of capitalism that is actually destructive of long-term value broadly defined. They need to demonstrate that they have the potential to be a source of education innovation responsive to the needs of business and society. Only then will they have a legitimate claim to a continued existence. This book takes us to the heart of the problems business schools face which are, alas, very much of their own making.” (Ken Starkey, Professor of Management and Organisational Learning, Nottingham University Business School, UK)

Anders Örtenblad is Professor of Working Life Science at the School of Business and Law, University of Agder, Norway, and Professor II at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Norway. He is the Editing Founder of the book series Palgrave Debates in Business and Management.

Riina Koris is Associate Professor in the Department of Marketing and Communication at Estonian Business School. Her research is on the topic of higher education and, in particular, the purpose of business education.