Debating Business School Legitimacy: Attacking, Rocking, and Defending the Status Quo

This book channels the debate on the relevance, value, and future of business schools. Could the Business School be like the Titanic, thought to be unsinkable, but ultimately doomed? And if it sinks, what of it? Or is it a ship which can adapt to the changing waters it sails in? In this book, authors from around the world debate the current and future legitimacy of the Business School from different contexts and perspectives. While some see very little or no hope at all to the future of the Business School as a legitimate centre for research and education, others remain critical, but see a way forward to rectify today’s concerns, such as around sustainability and inclusivity. This book highlights to readers thought-provoking complexities on the Business School playground and its legitimacy.

Anders Örtenblad is Professor of Working Life Science at the School of Business and Law, University of Agder, Norway, and Professor II at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Norway. He is the Editing Founder of the book series Palgrave Debates in Business and Management.

Riina Koris is Associate Professor in the Department of Marketing and Communication at Estonian Business School. Her research is on the topic of higher education and, in particular, the purpose of business education.