Citation Context Analysis as a Method for Conducting Rigorous and Impactful Literature Reviews

Abstract

Citation context analysis is a detailed and rigorous form of literature review that goes beyond traditional narrative and systematic reviews to better understand the impact of seminal works and influential authors. We discuss the types of questions citation context analyses can answer and provide a set of guidelines for how to effectively conduct them. Citation context analysis holds promise for enabling a more systematic assessment of how theories are used, empirically tested, and critiqued by subsequent citing authors. This has implications for both theory development and testing, and for the improvement of citation practices within the field of organizational studies and the social and physical sciences more broadly.