批判理論及其在資訊管理研究的應用

Critical Theory and the Applications in MIS Research

社會真實本是多重面相的，傳統資管研究傾向實證主義的觀點，但社會研究不應只是單向度而且應具有對現狀的批判精神，本研究探討批判理論及該理論在資訊管理研究的應用情形，整個文章由兩個主軸所構成，首先由法蘭克福學派開始介紹批判理論發展歷史，以及批判理論的一些基本觀點，並談論當代最有影響力的學者哈伯馬斯的知識論架構及溝通行動理論，之後則談論學者對批判理論的批評；另一主軸則是論述批判理論在資訊系統研究的應用，包括其基本的假設與研究方法的討論，以及目前在資訊系統已發表的相關研究。本研究結果闡明了批判研究觀點的指引及原則，提供資訊管理研究者除了傳統的實證主義觀點外，另一觀點研究的參考。

There are multiple dimensions of social reality. Most of information system researches reflect a positivistic orientation. But social research should be not uni-direction, as well as should make critique and reflect on status quo. This study aims to explore the critical theory (or critical social theory: CST) and its applications in the field of MIS research. Two major themes are developed. The first, beginning with the Frankfurt School, is to introduce the history of CST and explore some bases and critics of the theory. Further, Habermas is the most influence people of the School. His framework of cognitive interest of knowledge and the theory of communication are explored. The next theme is to discuss the applications of critical theory in the field of MIS research, including basic assumptions, research methodologies, and the present research. The results provide the principles and guidelines for researchers who apply CST to study information systems. Finally, the impacts and prospects of CST for MIS research are considered.