Abductive Theorizing Is More Than Idea Generation: Disciplined Imagination and a Prepared Mind

Abductive theorizing goes beyond mere idea generation and requires disciplined imagination and a prepared mind. Here, Sartre and Van de Ven explore the concept of abductive theorizing and its importance in the field of management. They argue that abductive theorizing involves more than just generating ideas; it requires a systematic approach that combines imagination, intuition, and logical reasoning. They emphasize the need for researchers to cultivate a prepared mind, which involves developing a deep understanding of the subject matter and being open to unexpected insights. They highlight the value of abductive theorizing in generating new knowledge and advancing the field of management.