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... theoretical relevance is tied to the research gap. For sake of clarity it will be further elaborated. The immense attention given to socially responsible supply chain management issues in recent literature is evidence enough that the area itself is of importance for researchers. Gaps in current literature and requests made in recent publications also highlight that there is a theoretical need to better understand the conceptual and small-scale empirical findings currently dominating the research area, and for theories explaining the mechanisms that generate the observable empirical events. By introducing moral disengagement this research borrows from the field of psychology to make advancements in the field of supply chain management. Other notable uses of psychology in logistics research are listed by and include areas such as customer service, employee relations, and attitude measurement. In total, 10 references that use psychology in logistics research are listed, but note that the referenced work is rather old and more such combinations surely would have been added if the topic was studied again. The use of psychology may be considered uncommon, but should at the same time be seen as accepted in the field. This research is centered on a novel combination of the two separate research directions, which holds much potential. The application of a psychological lens to research on social responsibility in supply chain research constitutes a theoretical contribution as such, but the novelty of the area furthermore presents an oppor- tunity to allow research to guide practice. Otherwise, the development of supply chain management has to a large extent been practitioner-led ( Burgess et al., 2006) and this research may allow the relationship between practice and theory to shift in favor of practice following theory (Figure 1.2). Moreover, Raiborn and Payne (1990, p. 885) make an interesting distinction between different standards of ethical behavior. 'Theoretical' reflects the highest potential for good; the spirit of morality, 'practical' reflects extreme diligence toward moral behavior, achievable but difficult, 'currently attainable' reflects behavior deemed basically moral by society, and 'ba- sic' reflects minimally acceptable behavior, the letter of law. In relation to their definitions, this research is trying to develop explanations of what is necessary to achieve the theoretical standard of moral behavior, but will also help to identify what is practically ...
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... conducted after the data collection for the thesis also imply that companies have problems with marketing the value of social responsibility and sus- tainability of their products. Social responsibility is not a tactile feature of a t-shirt, for example. It is possible to try and communicate the social responsibility with tags, in advertisement, and with the help of employees in the store. The nature of the socially responsible value offering thus seems to be obscure (see Figure 1.5). It implies that the level of collaboration with retail is important, or that the value needs to be made obvious, for product ...
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... Compared suggestions based on moral disengagement with lessons learned from supply chain literature • Concluded that the theoretically and empirically derived implications are coherent • Gave support for the concept moral decoupling as an explanatory tool for how supply chain management affects social responsibility disengagement, ( ) was discovered. Bandura's (1999) eight mech- anisms were especially intriguing since they provided explanations of how morality is disengaged with regard to context. The first appended paper determined that the reasoning behind moral disengagement was prevalent in supply chain reasoning for accepting or rejecting immoral behavior. Also, several mechanisms are similar in description to how supply chains are structured. Moral decoupling became an explanation to how moral is disengaged by a supply chain. Moral responsibility is considered a flow and separation of the flow of moral responsibility from the other supply chain flows is moral decoupling. The point where it occurs is a moral de- coupling point (see Figures 4.1 and 7.1). In the second appended paper, it was specified how certain practices are linked with specific disengagement mechanisms. The concept had thus grown and matured considerably from the initial idea of just decoupling the upper tier(s) of the supply chain, which is now only one example of moral decoupling. Moral disengagement was the key to explain why moral decou- pling allows people to disregard their moral standards, but also played an important role in further developing the concept. There is one final question regarding the con- cept of moral decoupling that has been addressed during the thesis. Is the concept ...
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... to flows specifically related to information, consumer advocacy groups often create such flows from an area of interest to the general public. Several el- ements of social responsibility are centered on the visibility in the supply chain. Visibility in socially responsible supply chain management is essentially a recom- mendation to increase the flow of information about conditions in the supply chain. Moral responsibility can also be transferred between nodes in the chain that do not have any connecting supply chain links. Following the 2013 disaster at Rana Plaza in Bangladesh, H&M got media attention for agreeing to contribute financially to independent inspections and improvements in fire safety at factories in the region (Butler, 2013). The only reported connection between H&M and Rana Plaza, at the time, was a human-rights ad. It juxtaposed a picture of H&M's chief executive officer with a picture of an anguished woman in the rubble of the collapsed building with the text "ENOUGH FASHION VICTIMS?" (Figure 8.1). No clothing from H&M was found in the collapsed building (Alderman, 2013). The flow of responsi- bility, consequently, found a way from the factory to an advocacy group, where it became an (mis)information flow to the public. Connections between moral responsibility and financial flows are also identifiable. Discussing the product flow it was mentioned that the recipient of the product in some sense funds the supply chain, which implies a connection between these flows. Following the 9/11 terrorist attack, individuals with connections to the Somali bank- ing system al-Barakaat had their assets frozen without any prior conviction. A treat- ment which has been criticized for violating legal rights (Wiese, 2005). Executives at TeliaSonera were removed from office and face investigation following bribery to gain entrance to the Uzbek telecom market (Milne, 2014). Investment funds face dilemmas pertaining to what investments are acceptable to make (Luckett, ...
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... competitiveness has increased in several markets several companies need to form a profound understanding of consumer needs, rather than an understanding of the technology of the product ). Differentiation areas that arise may not stem from the product itself, but from services traditionally connected to logistics, such as delivery options or managing final instalment (Hilletofth, 2012, MacMillan andMccrath, 1997). The consumers' power on supply chains activity and performance is a result of increased consumer sensitivity ( Leonard and Sesser, 1982;Takuechi and uelch, 1983). For example, the ability of consumer networks to express experiences with drugs had an effect on the consumer demand leading to word of mouth being more important than the claimed benefits of the drug ( ). Companies in fashion and high-tech industries need to have high capabilities to ramp up production and decrease time-to-market to reap the possible rewards of competition in markets with volatile demand and short product life cycles (Carrillo and Frana, 2006). In essence, companies need to understand the nature of the consumers and their demands before devising a supply chain strategy (Mason-Jones et al., 2000). One such demand being to inquire for ethically produced goods. ccording to Lintukangas (2011) there exists already empirical evidence (survey for Finnish managed large firms) that ethics is part of supplier relationship management capability. s society focuses on ethics , ethical products and services may be one way to differentiate from the competition, but it may also be an obligation towards consumers' rights to informed choice (Beekman, 2008). Purchasers, however, may deviate from corporate ethical guidelines due to high pressures to reduce costs and the effects of global sourcing (Carter, 2000;Raaaaque and hee, 2002) -this may be more critical issue in international operations than optimisation of purchasing lot siies, inventories held and availability in locally sourced products (e.g., Hedenstierna et al., 2011). Companies that have outsourced manufacturing to low cost countries cannot rely on ethical programmes alone to improve ethics at their suppliers; they need to shift from arms-length relations based on cost to engage their suppliers as collaborative partners . Moreover, in order to reveal ethical dilemmas it is not enough to increase visibility into the operations of the suppliers, or customers, all levels of the supply chain need to be included. Despite this, HM has chosen to exclude the cotton manufacturers from their code of conduct, and Sony Ericsson only takes responsibility for their suppliers and not their suppliers' suppliers . Park-Poaps and Rees (2010, p.305) list three reasons why unethical behaviour is likely to arise in the apparel and shoe industry: Production is labour intensive and automation is limited, pressure to lower production cost leads to sourcing in low cost countries, and complex supply chains. These traits make the industries susceptible to moral disengagement. Even if direct labour costs do not hold that significant proportion from total costs (5-10 at best, e.g., in textiles), rather unequal world salary system creates temptation to utilise lowest low countries in the labour intensive phases. Labour competitiveness is not only due to the brutto salaries paid to the workers, but all indirect costs incurred (social costs, pension costs and unemployment insurance costs, etc.). In advanced economies (like Finland, ermany, Sweden and Switterland) salaries are then in entirely different level as compared in Figure 1 to lower East European and sian countries. ctually wage difference to Philippines and Sri Lanka as compared to Swedish total manufacturing wages is more than 95 (quite often Chinese-based sourcing is being shift to these lower wage countries, incl. also India and Bangladesh; see case study, ) -even to Poland difference is 80. s typically global corporations try to achieve earnings levels of 5-100 in profit and loss statement (from revenues), quite frankly large proportion out of this arises from low cost country wages. It is not source of sustainable competitive advantage, but could be useful to fulfil short-term profitability targets. It is not surprising to find out that, e.g., credit crisis of 2009 resulted on significant reduction emphasis on operating costs in advanced economy companies (like located in USS), including hiring freeees and fixed period layoffs (Smith, 2011). However, turning offshoring and outsourcing from emerging countries back to, e.g., advanced wage leaders could at this moment be justified only with response, energy costs and inventories held (Simchi-Levi et al., 2012). age difference is still after minor cost cuts too wide. Moral disengagement is a set of mechanisms that may be employed to obfuscate morality while engaging in ethically questionable activities and behaviours ((quino et al., 2007;Vollum and Buffington-Vollum, 2007). Bandura (1999) describes eight types of moral ...
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... implications are concerned with the meaning of the findings in relation to the body of theoretical knowledge in the field. The research has fallen back on one specific motivation several times, the lack of theoretical constructs with regard to moral and social responsibility in supply chain management (e.g., Ashby et al., 2012;Hoejmose and Adrien-Kirby, 2012;Miemczyk et al., 2012;Winter and Knemeyer, 2013). Empirical illustrations have allowed researchers to provide lessons and examples of both failed and successful implementations of social responsibility (e.g., , and frameworks of drivers and inhibitors are available. The framework by Perry and Towers (2013, p. 492) is illustrative of the shortcom- ings, and strengths, of current literature. Their framework is constructed from a multiple-case study that is very insightful. They conclude by requesting more re- search investigating specific elements with a broader geographical focus. Regardless of how much empirical data is added, it is not likely to create theoretical constructs that can explain with any depth why certain factors are drivers, facilitators, and/or inhibitors. With this approach, research is confined to follow practice and not lead the development of the field (see Figure 1.2, p. 10). This is not to disrespect the empirical research conducted, this thesis has benefited greatly from the available research in the field. Empirical research is also important to identify additional elements of social responsibility and unique practices that have been successful or unsuccessful, but accelerated advancement is possible if theoretical lenses, such as the one provided by Bandura, are applied to analyze the ...
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... review of the papers generated a framework that summarizes the findings in three layers: within a company, within a supply chain, and beyond a supply chain (Figure 6.1). Each layer contains its own enabling elements of social responsibility that are classified as 'driver' (d ), 'facilitator' (f ) and/or 'inhibitor' (i ) ( Table 6.1). 'Be- yond supply chain' contains two elements (i-ii): (i) 'outside pressure' (d ) (e.g., non- governmental organizations, regulations, consumer demand) forces companies to comply with societal demands and requirements for sustainability -outside actors need to pressure companies to focus on all sustainability aspects; and (ii) 'commod- ity' (i ) (e.g., low supplier interaction, competitive pressure) products are more prone to induce unsustainable behavior -a strategy focused on differentiation, instead of price, is preferable. Beyond supply chain Outside Pressure (d ): Alblas et al., 2014;Awaysheh and Klassen, 2010;Babiak and Trendafilova, 2011;Bansal and Roth, 2000;Barnett, 2014;Bernaz, 2012;Brower and Mahajan, 2013;Carter and Easton, 2011;Carter and Jennings, 2004;Crespin-Mazet and Dontenwill, 2012;Santos, 2011;Galbreath, 2009;Gmelin and Seuring, 2014;Saunders, 2011;Hoejmose et al., 2013a;Hollos et al., 2012;Huq et al., 2014;Morali and Searcy, 2013;Ortolano et al., 2014;Ramanathan et al., 2014;Reuter et al., 2012;Simcic Brønn and Vidaver-Cohen, 2009;Soosay et al., 2012;Svensson and Wagner, 2012b;Teegen et al., 2004;Tencati and Zsolnai, 2008;Vermeulen and Seuring, 2009;Walker and Brammer, 2009;Walker and Laplume, 2014;Williamson et al., 2006;Wolf, 2011;Worthington et al., 2008;Zhu and Sarkis, 2006 e.g., non-governmental organizations (Teegen et al., 2004 Strand, 2009;Svensson and Wagner, 2011;Tate et al., 2013;Hoejmose et al., 2013b;Klassen, 2007, 2008;Verghese and Lewis, 2007;Walker and Jones, 2012;Wolf, 2011 e.g., long-term engagement (Mamic, 2005) ...
Context 8
... pertaining to the structure of the chain and its ability to support value creation were largely understood after considering how the knowledge of the products' value behaves in the supply chain. The main case company centered their new product development on understanding implicit consumer needs. They got the information from potential consumers through observation. Discovered ideas were then funneled through a formalized new product development process. Products developed were then sold to consumers via independent retailers. It was discovered that the retailers played an important role in communicating the value of the product to the consumer. The process was described as demand pull and push (Figure 1.3). The pull gathers information and the push converts the information to products and uses the information to inform consumers about the product and generate sales. Not all retailers were equally successful generating sales and it was found that retailers who collaborated with the main case company had greater ...
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... conclusion, the explanation to how social responsibility is affected by the rela- tion between supply chain management and moral disengagement is perhaps easiest to describe as a stepwise process (i-vi). (i) Ethical guidelines are designed, perhaps by companies in response to a demand from stakeholders. It may, for example, be legislative forces, consumer demand, and the wish of the owners, in combination and/or isolation. Ethical commitments are to some extent a social construct based on moral values. (ii) Ethical guidelines are implemented internally and externally to the company. There are certain elements (see Table 6.1, p. 62) that are important for the success of the implementation. (iii) Moral responsibility is considered a flow in the supply chain. (iv) Certain structures and activities have been linked to the restricted flow of moral responsibility in the supply chain, moral decoupling, which is a causal condition to moral disengagement. (v) Individuals that do not receive the flow of moral responsibility, due to moral decoupling, illustrate a liability between object (the individual) and other conditions (supply chain management) that can cause events where their behavior is not consistent with their morals. (vi) Individ- uals take part in and/or support behavior that contradicts the ethical guidelines and, consequently, social responsibility is compromised. The research has focused on deterministic explanations. In reality, it is a reciprocal relationship between en- vironment, behavior, and personal characteristics (Lee, 2008). This research never focused on what came first, but on how the environment affects the behavior. An il- lustration is presented in Figure 10.1. Remember the meta-methodological assump- tions presented in Section 3.1 and Figure 3.1! The presence of moral decoupling does not guarantee that there will be moral disengagement. However, if the supply chain is managed with the aim of removing liabilities to moral disengagement, the likelihood of immoral behavior can be reduced. Moral coupling is only partly and implicitly included in Figure 10.1. Moral coupling explains how connections can be made both internally, and to parts external to the supply chain, in order to increase moral responsibility. The flow of moral responsibility in the link can, of course, also be subject to moral ...
Context 10
... conclusion, the explanation to how social responsibility is affected by the rela- tion between supply chain management and moral disengagement is perhaps easiest to describe as a stepwise process (i-vi). (i) Ethical guidelines are designed, perhaps by companies in response to a demand from stakeholders. It may, for example, be legislative forces, consumer demand, and the wish of the owners, in combination and/or isolation. Ethical commitments are to some extent a social construct based on moral values. (ii) Ethical guidelines are implemented internally and externally to the company. There are certain elements (see Table 6.1, p. 62) that are important for the success of the implementation. (iii) Moral responsibility is considered a flow in the supply chain. (iv) Certain structures and activities have been linked to the restricted flow of moral responsibility in the supply chain, moral decoupling, which is a causal condition to moral disengagement. (v) Individuals that do not receive the flow of moral responsibility, due to moral decoupling, illustrate a liability between object (the individual) and other conditions (supply chain management) that can cause events where their behavior is not consistent with their morals. (vi) Individ- uals take part in and/or support behavior that contradicts the ethical guidelines and, consequently, social responsibility is compromised. The research has focused on deterministic explanations. In reality, it is a reciprocal relationship between en- vironment, behavior, and personal characteristics (Lee, 2008). This research never focused on what came first, but on how the environment affects the behavior. An il- lustration is presented in Figure 10.1. Remember the meta-methodological assump- tions presented in Section 3.1 and Figure 3.1! The presence of moral decoupling does not guarantee that there will be moral disengagement. However, if the supply chain is managed with the aim of removing liabilities to moral disengagement, the likelihood of immoral behavior can be reduced. Moral coupling is only partly and implicitly included in Figure 10.1. Moral coupling explains how connections can be made both internally, and to parts external to the supply chain, in order to increase moral responsibility. The flow of moral responsibility in the link can, of course, also be subject to moral ...
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... . . explore if and how supply chain configuration affects moral disen- gagement" (Eriksson et al., 2013c, p. ...
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... important area for product success was how the retailers were able to convey information on the product value to the end consumer. The value of the sold prod- ucts was not always obvious to the consumer. The retailers, being independent from the wholesaler, lacked incentive to sell the case company's products. A four square determining how value is affected based on level of collaboration with the retailer and the nature of the value offering (obvious or obscure) was constructed to illustrate what kind of products are in extra need of collaborative efforts in the downstream supply chain in order to be successful (Eriksson, 2011, p. 41; Figure 1.5). The re- 13 (Eriksson, 2011, p. 35) search also highlighted how several stakeholders could be involved in new product development, contributing their own unique area of expertise, ranging from design to knowledge about the manufacturing facilities abroad. Trade-offs in design due to supply chain constrictions were also ...
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... could be that two mechanisms function as a NAND gate, so if two mechanisms are active, the real life event is not created. Two separate mechanisms could also perform as an AND gate, which requires both mechanisms to be active in order to generate a certain real life event. These are just two gate combinations, and more are possible (OR, NOR, XOR, XNOR) for two mechanisms. Then imagine if there are more than two mechanisms that need to be included into the model for accurate description! Involved causal mechanisms may only have a contingent relationship. Depending on conditions one active mechanism can, given different contexts, produce different results, and alternatively, different mechanisms have the potential of generating the same observable events (Sayer, 1992) (Figure 3.1). The relationship between object, condition, and event explains why this research identifies an event with an individual as the object, and conditions confined to sup- ply chain management. The individual has the power to act morally, supply chain management contains conditions, and the observable event is behavior that contra- dicts the morality of the individual. In this research the individual is reflective of all individuals. We can separate individuals into to groups. If they, via a supply chain, are connected to events they normally would consider immoral it is of in- terest how supply chain management can reduce or strengthen their sense of moral responsibility. If they are not connected to the supply chain it is, likewise, also interesting how supply chain management can reduce or strengthen their sense of moral ...
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... pull and push starts to explain how value might be created and lost in the supply chain. Similarly, present a model explaining how service value may be lost due to service quality gaps. Their research is focused on intra-organizational aspects and was conducted within a service context. The licentiate thesis developed the concept of service gaps to value gaps and shifted the emphasis from intra-to inter-organizational aspects, with a focus on both service and products. The model was developed to point out key areas in the supply chain where innovative value is at risk of being lost (Figure ...
Citations
... Many of the works cited to argue for this specific paper are written in ways which break the mold. Suddaby (2006) proposed that publications often follow a specific structure due to expectations from editors and positivistic influences, but there are examples of publications written to specifically highlight an abductive approach (Eriksson, 2014), or to present an argument in a colorful manner (Brown, 2012). If you feel compelled to break the mold, ensure you do so with clear intent and purpose. ...
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide scholars with a robust, easy-to-follow structural model for crafting compelling academic publications. Recognizing the diversity of research methodologies and genres, the paper proposes the symmetry of specificity framework as a guide to maintaining coherence, depth and relevance across different sections of an academic paper.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper presents a theoretical framework – “symmetry of specificity” – through an iterative approach inspired by supervision and examination of theses, writing and reviewing research papers and editorial work. The framework builds upon the established IMRAD model and uses the concept of symmetry to explain the structural elements of academic publications. Its unique contribution lies in elucidating the two-dimensional funneling process that takes place within academic writing, and providing a nuanced understanding of how to maintain balance between different sections.
Findings
The symmetry of specificity framework introduces a novel perspective on academic writing, emphasizing the concept of “symmetry in specificity”. It shows how maintaining a balance in detail and focus across different sections of a research paper can significantly enhance its coherence and relevance. By elucidating the interaction between theory and data in research writing, it provides valuable insights into the nuances of crafting a compelling academic paper.
Research limitations/implications
While the proposed symmetry of specificity framework may not be universally applicable across all types of research, it provides a solid foundation for the development of alternate structures tailored to specific research paradigms. There is ample opportunity for future research to explore adaptations of this model for various types of academic writing, offering a fresh perspective on structuring academic publications and potentially sparking new discussions and innovations in this realm.
Practical implications
This framework can aid both novice and experienced scholars in structuring their research papers effectively. By offering a conceptual roadmap, it guides the writer through the complex process of academic writing, from crafting the methodology and analysis sections to articulating compelling conclusions. Thus, it serves as a useful tool in enhancing the quality and impact of research communication.
Originality/value
This paper presents a unique approach to structuring academic publications that goes beyond the conventional IMRAD model. By offering a theory-based structural model, it contributes to an underexplored area in academic writing and opens up new avenues for pedagogy and practice in research communication.
... Despite some of the arguments above, highlighting the lack of sustainability initiatives that encompass all three aspects, the aspects themselves are intertwined (e.g. Eriksson, 2014;Hockerts, 1999). The economic aspect includes securing financial gains through market expansion, growth, and the associated benefits (Roberts and Tribe, 2008). ...
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the logic and differentiators of organizational positioning and planning of sustainability initiatives between private and public organizations in the healthcare industry. Sustainability initiatives refer to organizations’ economic, social and environmental actions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study is based on an inductive approach judgmental sampling and in-depth interviews of executives at private and public hospitals in Spain have been used. Data were collected from the directors of communication at private hospitals, and from the executive in charge of corporate social responsibility in public hospitals. An empirical discourse analysis is used.
Findings
The positioning and planning of sustainability initiatives differs between private and public hospitals. The former consider sustainability as an option that is required mainly for social reasons, a bottom-up positioning and planning. It emerges merely spontaneously within the organization, while the sustainability initiatives in public hospitals are compulsory. They are imposed by the healthcare system within which the public hospital, operates and constitutes a top-down positioning and planning that is structured to accomplish set sustainability goals.
Research limitations/implications
A limitation of this study is that it is undertaken exclusively in Spanish organizations from one industry. This study differs from previous ones in terms of exploring the positioning and planning of the sustainability initiatives, which focus on the organizational logic of such sustainability initiatives. There are both common denominators and differentiators between private and public hospitals.
Practical implications
The logic of determining the positioning and planning of the sustainability initiatives is mainly about satisfying organizational needs and societal demands. Nowadays, organizations tend to engage in sustainability initiatives, so it is essential to understand the logic of how organizations position and plan such efforts.
Originality/value
This study investigates the path that follows sustainability initiatives in public and private organizations. It reports mainly differentiators between private and public organizations. It also contributes to explaining the organizational reasoning as to why companies make decisions about sustainability initiatives, an issue which has not been addressed sufficiently in existing theory studies.
... This may be explained by incorporating theory from psychology, such as moral disengagement (Bandura et al., 1996). In essence, the key issues are structures and management that reduce individuals' sense of personal agency towards the actions, their results, or the victim in the supply chain (Eriksson, 2014). ...
... New connections between nodes can also be made. For example, when human right advocacy groups create awareness and action in the general public and from companies not previously connected to those suffering from the misconduct (Eriksson, 2014). Specific supply chain practices have been linked with increased moral disengagement. ...
... This may be explained by incorporating theory from psychology, such as moral disengagement (Bandura et al., 1996). In essence, the key issues are structures and management that reduce individuals' sense of personal agency towards the actions, their results, or the victim in the supply chain (Eriksson, 2014). ...
... New connections between nodes can also be made. For example, when human right advocacy groups create awareness and action in the general public and from companies not previously connected to those suffering from the misconduct (Eriksson, 2014). Specific supply chain practices have been linked with increased moral disengagement. ...
The purpose of this research is to assess how codes of conducts are outlined and formulated in relation to moral disengagement along the supply chain. The research is focused on the idea that supply chain structure may reduce the actors' sense of moral responsibility for the actions and impacts of the supply chain on workers and environment. The research has been conducted as a case study including Swedish firms in the textile industry. The research has used secondary data from codes of conducts. The findings show that codes of conduct do not cover all supply chain practices linked with moral disengagement. This does not cause immoral behaviour as such, but might cause moral disengagement. Supply chain research needs to focus on what should be included in codes of conduct and other ethical guidelines, so as to reduce the risk of immoral behaviour. In order to reduce the likelihood for moral disengagement, there are several supply chain practices that should be included in codes of conduct, such as power asymmetry, managerial support, and incentives.
... As is well established in the supply chain field, definitions are a constant source of debate, and not all usages are consistent (e.g. social responsibility in Eriksson (2014) and supply chain management in Bechtel and Jayaram (1997)). Based on the definitions presented above, it is also possible to distinguish combinations, for example reshore/outsource and offshore/insource. ...
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to clarify the rather blurry concept of reshoring and its main drivers and barriers. At the same time, the paper seeks to provide a much-needed overview of the scientific theories used in previous research on reshoring.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper gathers information from previous published research. Data were collected through a systematic literature review on “reshoring” using primarily qualitative research techniques. Through a structured keyword search and subsequent elimination of papers, 22 peer-reviewed journal papers made it into the final review.
Findings
There is currently no consensus on the definition or “theory of reshoring”. Drivers and barriers could be grouped into five different sets of dynamics: global competitive dynamics, home country, host country, supply chain and firm-specific.
Research limitations/implications
Researchers need to consider the future development of the field and work toward an accepted terminology. Models about reshoring decisions need to include several decision criteria, which goes beyond financial metrics.
Practical implications
Practitioners need to carefully consider the decision to reshore as to not make rushed decisions. The final decision needs to consider factors such as quality, risk and brand reputation.
Originality/value
The paper is, to authors’ knowledge, the first overview of earlier research in a research journal. It provides a much-needed overview of an emerging field that can hold great importance for both future research and production. The constructed framework structures the dynamics (drivers and barriers) associated with reshoring.
... The downstream supply chain has not gained as much attention. Noteworthy is how a company in the pharmaceutical industry recently took downstream responsibility when they stopped prisons from using their products when administrating capital punishment (Eriksson, 2014). Given the extensive attention already given in literature to A-flows, we will not elaborate further on this topic in this paper. ...
Responsibility for the environment, social, and economic issues is of rising concern for supply chain management. Even though it is acknowledged that responsibility issues extend across the entirety of the supply chain, some parts of the chain are still in need of attention. Much of the detected misconduct takes place at the beginning, or the end of the supply chain, but the end of one supply chain could actually be the beginning of another chain. Here, we shed light on the interface between such chains, an area that constitutes a blank space in research. Ship breaking is used as an empirical example, to explain one situation where materials and products at the end of their life are salvaged and enters new/other supply chains. Ship breaking has impacts on the environment and the workers, but seems to be disregarded of both the first and second supply chain. Highlighting the problem, we suggest three types of flows in and between supply chains. We also bring attention to the complexity of responsibility in, and especially between, supply chains.
... Given the individual differences in moral values and succeeding judgments, extant literature has labelled these varying processes of moral-related behaviors as moral reasoning strategies (Bowman & Menzel, 1998;Keefer, 1993;Stahl, 1976). Some relevant strategies that have been characterized in prior research include: moral rationalization, moral decoupling, and moral coupling (Bhattacharjee, Berman, & Reed, 2013;Eriksson, 2014;Lee & Kwak, 2015a). ...
... As a final point, later research has recognized moral coupling as an additional moral reasoning strategy. This process refers to the assimilation of judgments of morality and those of performance (Eriksson, 2014;Lee & Kwak, 2015a). ...
... This particular moral reasoning scheme has been introduced as a tactic employed to ascribe immoral behavior as characterizing the totality of a transgressor's actions (Eriksson, 2014). In this case, individuals may utilize the actor's immoral behavior as an auxiliary indicator to make judgments about not only morality, but also performance. ...
Within sports, membership in a fan base often constitutes an attachment to a team and its various personnel. As part of a presumed ingroup, sports fans will go about evaluating their favorite teams and players based on several factors, such as team or athlete performance and off‑the‑field behaviors by such athletes. Although a vast set of literature within sport management has reported that fans exhibit partiality towards their favorite teams, research in social psychology and group dynamics has presented evidence to dispute this occurrence. This body of work has contended that people in a group will operate using subjective group dynamics (SGD), wherein norms and values are actively considered in group appraisal. Complementary research has offered the manifestation of a black sheep effect (BSE), or ingroup extremity, particularly when members deviate from norms or standards of the group. In a similar vein, this dissertation challenges the prevalent notion of fans’ enduring support for their favorite teams and examines numerous correlates of such behavior. Through five main studies, this dissertation investigates the impact of athlete behavior, group membership, player status, rivalry, and regret on evaluative judgments, identity threat, purchase decisions, product choices, and social media behaviors. Study 1 gauged the role of ingroup extremity when a team’s expectations, or norms of performance by an athlete, are violated, providing evidence to support ingroup derogation among fans. Expanding upon these results, Study 2 offered an assessment of the BSE in determining how fans go about supporting and derogating an ingroup or outgroup athlete based on performance, while furthering the application of these concepts to purchase decisions and social media intentions. Our second experiment offers partial support of the BSE, wherein fans exhibit a proclivity to derogate deviant ingroup and outgroup athletes to the same extent. Using a multi‑method approach integrating both quantitative and qualitative methods, our third experiment tested how rivalry and membership (i.e., player) saliency operate to amplify specific aspects of fan behavior, social media intentions, and product choices. Study 3 reveals ingroup and performance biases among fans as well as the function of team identification as a guide for team-licensed merchandise selections. Study 4 examined how evaluations of deviant performance- and moral‑related behavior by athletes can be affected by various moral reasoning strategies utilized by fans. Our fourth experiment demonstrates similar biases as established in Study 3 and also illustrates the amplified use of moral rationalization over other moral reasoning strategies. Using the findings from our first four studies as a foundation, we introduce a novel concept to the field (i.e., black sheep regret [BSR]) and complete this dissertation with a field study (Study 5A) and an experimental investigation (Study 5B). Although Study 5A did not support BSR in a naturalistic context (i.e., on social media), Study 5B provides data to verify its occurrence in fans. Ultimately, Study 5B produces rationale for the inconclusive results within social media settings, explained by a potential effect of black sheep perpetuance (BSP). Taken together, this dissertation discusses its theoretical contributions and offers pragmatic implications and future directions for sport managers and practitioners within the sport industry. Ultimately, the current composition highlights the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in exploring various components of specific group behavior in fans, as well as in the larger milieu of human behavior itself.
... Eriksson et al. (2013c) propose that moral responsibility should also be considered a flow in the chain. Accordingly, disrupting the flow of moral responsibility may lead to moral disengagement (Eriksson, 2014). Such disengagement consists of eight psychological mechanisms, which individuals might use to self-sanction behavior that they would normally consider immoral (Bandura et al., 1996;Bandura, 1999). ...
Purpose
This paper aims to describe and discuss a balance model of theoretical business sustainability, to leverage the inferior side, so as to enhance performance.
Design/methodology/approach
A conceptual description and discussion are provided, along with an empirical depiction.
Findings
The empirical illustration presents one organization that embodies the goals of theoretical business sustainability in the marketplace and society.
Research limitations/implications
Further research is needed to enhance our understanding of the phenomenon and performance of business sustainability in supply chains.
Practical implications
Findings highlight that there is no justification for practitioners to strive consistently for anything other than theoretical business sustainability, and stakeholders need to push organizations in that direction.
Originality/value
The paper contributes to our understanding of what should be done and why business sustainability performance should be improved in supply chains.
... H&M did not supply from companies resident in the building. However, when outside actors blamed the industry as such, and the media put the spotlight on H&M, they agreed to join in preventive efforts in region [Eriksson, (2014), pp.1, 76]. By reporting on what was not done by a company without any direct connection to the disaster, it was possible to make improvements to the industry. ...
The objective is to describe the applicability and relevance of the consensus formula in the context of the triple bottom line (TBL) approach. A bipolar approach with an empirical example is provided to introduce an extended approach of TBL, namely TBLx2. TBLx2 extends the standard TBL, thus demonstrating a counterview, compatibility and counterview to TBL. The approach provides opportunities for further research beyond contemporary practices and previous studies, shifting the focus from current status towards future direction in the implementation, assessment, reporting of sustainable business models and sustainable business practices. TBLx2 contributes to expanding the current approach of TBL that is mainly unilateral in theory and practice, so as to become bilateral through addressing the other side of the coin - namely, what is not implemented, assessed and reported in company efforts at business sustainability in the marketplace and society as a whole.
... The frame of reference is compared with the development of a PhD thesis (Eriksson, 2014). The thesis project extended over five years, but the work presented covers a time span of seven years. ...
Purpose
– The purpose of this study is to convey lessons learned from a long-term research project and present a coherent approach for researching relevant areas, ranging from ontology to quality.
Design/methodology/approach
– A PhD process is used as a case to present conceptual ideas on performing research in logistics/supply chain management (SCM).
Findings
– The research integrates different views on knowledge and the world and how to perform research in logistics/SCM. Models explaining micro and macro abduction, and the relationship between research, the context and researcher subjectivity are suggested.
Research limitations/implications
– Knowledge on why and how critical realism can be used in logistics/SCM research is advanced. Abduction is presented as a micro/macro process, which should not have any specific “finish line”, and is supported with both ontological and epistemological arguments.
Practical implications
– Research in logistics/SCM can be improved by connecting different aspects of viewing and creating knowledge. Reflecting on how exactly a publication is related to a project, researchers can better describe how they contribute to knowledge creation, and also understand the relationship between micro and macro abduction.
Originality/value
– Through presenting an approach to knowledge creation in the context of a PhD thesis, this research distinguishes itself in a field with a growing need to define its own views of the world and of knowledge. The paper advances current understanding of knowledge creation in logistics/SCM, expanding on earlier models and presenting a broader view of the research process and the associated dilemmas. The paper also contains novel considerations of the differences between publication types and how these affect the presentation of the research.
