The Explanatory Power of Theories - Qualitative Bayesian Reasoning in Strategic Management Research
Type
conference contribution
Date Issued
2026
Author(s)
Kretz, Noel
Abstract
This work-in-progress study addresses the challenge of evaluating competing theories in case study research. We apply Qualitative Bayesian Reasoning (QBR) to strategic management as a formal extension of process tracing that enables explicit comparison of rival explanations through inference to the best explanation. By assessing how expected each piece of evidence is under alternative theories, QBR reduces inferential bias and clarifies the relative explanatory power and overlap among theories. An illustrative case of Mercedes-Benz’s powertrain strategy (1990–2009) demonstrates how QBR strengthens hypothesis testing and explanation of complex phenomena in strategic management.
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
No
Event Title
Strategic Management Society Annual Conference
Event Location
Berlin
Event Date
2026
Division(s)
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Name
Explanatory power of theories - SMS Submission .pdf
Size
328.78 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
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