Continental thinking: a tool for accessing the project experience

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to outline a research agenda for the phenomena of projects grounded in Continental philosophy concepts as an alternative to the dominant Analytical thinking. Design/methodology/approach A theoretical exploration of Continental concepts in generic terms; discussion of the examples of discourse on various philosophical lenses in different disciplines; discussion of extant examples in the project literature of Continental themes; conceptualisation and discussion of the Continental research agenda. Findings The integrated Continental research agenda proposes three key themes: experience, projectyness and being. This interpretive lens is important for providing an alternative worldview to the dominant Analytical viewpoint. Originality/value The paper provides an integrated Continental framework (drawing on a variety of Continental themes) for the conceptualisation of, and inquiry into the experience of project work. It highlights how our worldview impacts our interpretation of phenomena.