Abstract
This paper suggests that when we debate binary choices for IS research, such as rigor/relevance or theory/practice, we constrain our vision and limit the impact of our efforts. An alternative viewpoint considers research in a two-dimensional space based on motivation, enabling us to envision research that seeks both understanding and practical use. The paper reviews the historical precedence in the U.S. for the unidimensional view of research, presents examples of the recursive relationship between scientific and technical progress, and concludes with implications for focusing on research in the "both-and" quadrant.
DOI
10.17705/1CAIS.00616
Recommended Citation
Mason, R. (2001). Not Either/Or: Research in Pasteur's Quadrant. Communications of the Association for Information Systems, 6, pp-pp. https://doi.org/10.17705/1CAIS.00616
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