Towards an Integrative Epistemological Framework beyond Positivist Assumptions: Integrating Maqasid al-Shariah into Management Epistemology
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35719/islamikainside.v12i1.372Keywords:
Management epistemology, Maqasid al-shariah, Islamic epistemology, beyond positivism, integrative epistemological frameworkAbstract
Management epistemology has been strongly shaped by positivist and empirical-analytical assumptions that emphasize measurement, objectivity, causal explanation, and empirical verification. Although these approaches contribute to methodological rigor, their epistemological limitations become apparent when organizational realities involve contextual, experiential, ethical, and purposive dimensions. Existing studies have increasingly applied maqasid al-shariah to organizational performance, decision-making, governance, sustainability, and Islamic financial institutions, yet its role in the construction of management knowledge remains insufficiently developed. This study aims to construct an integrative epistemological framework that positions maqasid al-shariah as a normative-teleological epistemic principle within management knowledge production. Using an integrative literature review and conceptual synthesis, the study examines management epistemology, positivist assumptions, Islamic epistemology, and maqasid-oriented management. The synthesis identifies three interconnected limitations: reductionism in representing organizational reality, value-free bias in separating empirical inquiry from normative questions, and measurement bias that restricts epistemic visibility. In response, the study proposes an Integrative Epistemological Model connecting revelation (naql), reason (‘aql), and empirical inquiry, with maqasid al-shariah providing normative-teleological orientation. Empirical inquiry remains essential for establishing empirical validity, while maqasid provides criteria for interpreting and evaluating knowledge in relation to justice, human dignity, public benefit (maslahah), and prevention of harm. The study contributes a conceptual framework for extending management epistemology beyond the assumption that empirical-analytical criteria alone exhaust the legitimate dimensions and purposes of management knowledge.
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