Field Partitioning: The Emergence, Development and Consolidation of Subfields. Issue 7 (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Faulconbridge, James; Muzio, Daniel
• Is Part Of: Organization studies. Volume 42:Issue 7(2021)
• Page Start: 1053
• Page End: 1083
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: content analysis -- data analysis -- institutional theory -- longitudinal qualitative -- professions; Organizational sociology -- Periodicals; Organizational behavior -- Periodicals; Organization -- Periodicals; 302.35
• DOI: 10.1177/0170840619855745
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0170-8406

Abstract

This paper develops the concept of the subfield as a key feature of field-level change. In particular, it analyses how a subfield emerges, develops and consolidates itself over time. It does this through the concept of field partitioning whereby a formerly established field generates a distinct subfield with its own institutional infrastructure. Three mechanisms are identified (focusing on new opportunities; inter-organization studies and intra-subfield networking; and distinction) through which field partitioning occurs. Each mechanism is shown to contribute to the development of specific aspects of the subfield's institutional infrastructure, as part of a dynamic process that differentiates the subfield from its parent field.