Competitive advantages exist: A critique of Powell
Abstract
This response is a plea for considering cautiously the use of formal logic and philosophy in strategic management. In a recent article, logical and philosophical considerations on the relationship between competitive advantage and superior returns led to a pragmatic view of competitive advantage. First, we propose a different logical analysis of the links between competitive advantage and superior performance. Using the same premises, this analysis leads to different conclusions. Second, our commentaries suggest that philosophy should be employed for opening discussions and perspectives rather than as an instrument for conviction.