An Application of Critical Social Theory in Cross-Cultural IS Research

Abstract

This paper presents an application of Critical Social Theory (CST) in cross-cultural IS research by providing a perspective on cultural differences in e-mail use of organizations from CST point of view. CST can be used as one of qualitative methodologies in IS research. Among variety of CST concepts, Habermas` theory of communicative action is applied here for the purpose of drawing plausible explanation for the phenomenon of cultural differences between East-Asian countries and the West in the use of e-mail in organizations. CST can identify cultural codes such as respect for seniors as a part of complete information package that can be illuminated during the use of e-mail by a CST concept called Critical Reflection. Habermas suggests that while performing social actions, humans can be critical of validity associated with the information being disseminated through communication.