Introduction: Why Theory? (Mis)Understanding the Context and Rationale

This introduction sets the stage for what this series of volumes on information systems (IS) research seeks to accomplish, that is, to move the standards of IS research beyond its comfort zone of deriving legitimacy from its more established reference disciplines toward crafting fresh and original indigenous theory. The first step toward reaching this goal involves reaching an agreement on the need for theory, and the preeminent role of theory as the most distinctive product of human intellectual activity. Following Aristotle’s approach to addressing the “Why?” question by answering the “What?” question, this chapter reviews major discussions surrounding the definition of theory from multiple disciplines and proposes a novel, more inclusive view of theory that encompasses the views of these disciplines while, at the same time, highlights the unique goals that each theory category addresses. These unique communicative goals: theory as proposition, model, paradigm, worldview, grand theory, methodology, explanation, significant description, prescription, and metatheory offers researchers a wider space within which exciting and original theorizing can take place.