Retroduction, set-theoretic configurational approaches and generative mechanisms: some preliminary insights

Abstract

Retroduction is a thought operation that has been investigated in a limited fashion in Information Systems (IS) research. Yet, it has the potential of reframing IS research because it can shed a new light on the study of causal mechanisms. In this paper, we call for a renewed effort in the use of retroduction in the study of IS phenomena. Specifically, we claim that IS researchers could retroduce causal mechanisms by leveraging Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) counterfactual approach to causation. Preliminary insights are discussed

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