Theory to Practice: Practice to Theory

How does one learn and acquire knowledge? Which approach is better—practical exposure and application, or learning concepts and techniques grounded in theoretical models and framework? Which method is correct—which method has all the solutions? This is a key topic of debate in the contemporary management/educational scenario. The two books reviewed in this issue of OMJ present the two sides of this debate. The books are both valuable sources of information and knowledge in the area of management. However, their approaches toward creation and generation of knowledge are totally different. The first book, titled Organizational Ethics: A Practical Approach, edited by Craig E. Johnson, is a comprehensive volume on organizational ethics. The book covers theories, principles, and philosophies of ethics and ethical behavior, relating them to individual behaviors, organizational environments, teams, and group function and decision-making concerns. The various facets of organizational elements such as interpersonal communication, power and politics, conflict, and leadership are examined under the lens of ethics and moral values. Ethical culture and its influence on values, vision and mission, and norms of an organization are emphasized. All theoretical assertions pertaining to ethical behavior and dilemmas are practically explored using case studies, projects, and assessment for handson experience and corporate examples. Ashwini Gangadharan’s review provides a succinct analysis of the book. Her review focuses on the need and usefulness of the book and the role of ethics and ethical behavior at both organizational and individual levels. She provides detailed summaries of all sections of the book highlighting important perspectives and elements pertaining to ethical behavior and stages. She opines that this book could be considered a “systematic guide to ethical decision making and a guide to creating an ethical environment in the organization.” Ashwini Gangadharan lauds the potential and significant contribution of this book.