Methodological Complementarism or Separate Paradigm Development—Examining the Options for Enhanced Operational Research

Abstract

Although operational research traditionally has concerned itself with quantitative and technical aspects of managerial problem solving, it has gradually built up a capacity to deal with “softer” issues, and broader societal problems. This paper considers the notion of “enhanced” operational research within the context of the practical and philosophical difficulties brought about through combining problem solving methodologies from different theoretical traditions. The paper argues that separate paradigm development for EOR may be justified on theoretical grounds and on the basis of its cultural feasibility.