A scientific basis for rigor in information systems research 1

Qualitative research is just as able as quantitative research to follow certain fundamental principles of logic in general and scientific reasoning in particular. Two such principles are the logic of modus ponens and the logic of modus tollens. In this essay, we frame different research approaches- positivist research, interpretive research, action research, and design research-in the forms of modus ponens and modus tollens. Three issues emerge...