Release | Rainmaking: Observed with social systems theory

Abstract: This article examines contemporary efforts to control climate change through the lens of social systems theory, particularly by drawing comparisons to rain dances and shamanic rituals. It argues that modern climate control strategies bear functional similarities to archaic rituals aimed at influencing weather patterns, despite the absence of direct causality. Using Niklas Luhmann’s concepts […]

Release | Willing unwillingness. A Luhmannian perspective on followership and leadership in organizations

We are excited to share that our paper, Willing unwillingness. A Luhmannian perspective on followership and leadership in organizations, has been published in Systems Research and Behavioral Science! This is not just another piece about leadership being a top-down power game. No, what we uncovered goes far deeper. Through our research, we explored the paradox […]

CFP | EURAM 2025 in Florence | T14_03 General Management and Management Learning: Science and Education for Purpose

We invite you to submit your research to our track at the 25th European Academy of Management Anniversary Conference (EURAM 2025) in Florence, Italy! Date: 22-25 June 2025 Venue: University of Florence Track: T14_03 General Management and Management Learning: Science and Education for Purpose Proponents: Short description: The concept of general management suggests that all […]

CFP | EURAM 2025 in Florence | T12_04 Management History, Theory, and Philosophy

We invite you to submit your research to our track at the 25th European Academy of Management Anniversary Conference (EURAM 2025) in Florence, Italy! Date: 22-25 June 2025 Venue: University of Florence Track: T12_04 – Management History, Theory, and Philosophy Proponents: Short description: The track “Management History, Theory, and Philosophy” addresses the historical development of […]

CFP | EURAM 2025 in Florence | T11_04 Exploring Organizational Purposes: Multifunctional Approaches to Resilience, Leadership, and Management Practice

We invite you to submit your research to our track at the 25th European Academy of Management Anniversary Conference (EURAM 2025) in Florence, Italy! Date: 22-25 June 2025 Venue: University of Florence Track: T11_04 Exploring Organizational Purposes: Multifunctional Approaches to Resilience, Leadership, and Management Practice Proponents: Short description: We invite paper submissions focusing on the […]

Release | Social systems theory and family business: A perspective article

Abstract: This perspective article highlights the significance of systems-theoretical approaches within family business research. Extant systems-theoretical literature in the field of family business research is reviewed to outline potential research gaps and avenues. The article highlights the fundamental differences between organisational decision communication and intimate family communication. At the same time, it shows that both […]

Announcement | Luhmann Conference Programme 2024

The final version of the programme of the Luhmann Conference 2024 is available for download here.

Release | Spaceship Earth. A total institution

Abstract: The concept of Earth as a planetary spaceship serves as a root metaphor of ecological economics, sustainability science, and the broader environmental movement. This article first explores the origins of this metaphor and elucidates the core components and functions of a hypothetical Spaceship Earth. It then draws on Erving Goffman’s characteristics of total institutions […]

Preprint | What is in organisation? Contents of a self-contained container

The preprint of my manuscript “What is in organisation? Contents of a self-contained container” is available for download on Qeios or here on the present site. Recommended citation: Roth S. (2024). What Is in Organisation? Contents of a Self-Contained Container, Qeios, DOI: 10.32388/I9IMHM.