Aims

Strategy is an obligatory passage point which connects the interior world of an organization with the exterior domain in which it operates. While Strategy has crowned itself as the queen of the management sciences, this module will critically scrutinise its legitimacy. Journeying down the brightly-lit boulevards of strategy, the module will tour through the central plazas of strategic thought. It will also venture to the edgier side of town, going down to cool cafes in dimly-lit alleyways to take in critique, controversy and the latest in innovative thinking. The module aims to be an exciting sojourn through this mysterious concept we term strategy.

Viewing strategy as a powerful language game – an esperanto for corporate elites – the module will critically interrogate the historical antecedents of strategy, the central currents of strategic thought, and cutting edge issues in strategy. It will explore strategy in the context of globalization. The module will argue that power, politics and realpolitick are central to understanding strategy. Contemporary and historical examples from corporate, public and political life will be used.

The module will connect strategy with broader issues in organizations and society.

Outline Of Syllabus

1.       Strategy & Capitalism
2.       Classical Strategic Thought
3.       Strategy & Power
4.       Strategy & Elites
5.       The Work of Strategy
6.       Strategy in the Age of Crisis

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lecture based delivery of this module is appropriate to the delivery of complex ideas. The two hour lectures will include a range of audio-visual materials which will enhance the student experience.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The essay will enable an in-depth investigation of a strategy topic.