Business and scientific forms of argumentation in commercialization : dictators and chinwaggers

Commercialisation activities combining the discoveries of one occupational group, such as scientists, with the commercial skills of engineers and managers involve interactions across occupational cultures. This paper considers how dissent can be interpreted as a sign of dysfunction or cause for concern. The context of the study is Australian hybrid research organisations comprised of academic, government and industry personnel. Semi-structured interviews of a total of twenty scientists, engineers and managers focussed on their experiences and perceptions of occupational norms, including styles of debate, and the potential of these norms to facilitate or obstruct commercialization. Distinctive patterns of argumentation were identified as typical of commercial and research occupations. In addition, the interviewees confirmed that occupational forms of argumentation could influence the outcomes of commercialization.