Demarcation and Definition: The Metaphysics of Projects and Their Management Considered

Abstract

The philosophy of project management is largely uncharted territory. Although the possibility of it being a distinct area of inquiry has been suggested before now, it has not yet formally taken shape as such. Several years ago, discussions were had among academicians and professionals within project management circles regarding the relevance and applicability of philosophy to their craft, but philosophers themselves have yet to weigh in on any of it. Taking the proposal of J. Davidson Frame in his paper “Philosophy of Project Management: Lessons From the Philosophy of Science” as a starting point, I have proceeded into the current void to consider questions of project ontology and demarcation, present a novel theory of projects (Propositional Theory), and analyze common reasons for project failure. Beyond my own theorizing, my aim is to clear ground, as it were, to accommodate and encourage further debate in the interest of developing the philosophy of project management into a new area of applied philosophy.