Opinion is varied on whether when writing about prior research you should mainly use the present or past
tense. When either tense can communicate equally effectively, we opt for the present for several reasons.
First, it gives the reader a greater sense of immediacy. Second, when discussing concepts, and in line with
our concept-centric approach to literature reviews, it is logical to use the present tense because concepts
are always here and now. Third, the present tense is terser and thus faster for the reader to process. There
is an exception to this recommendation. An authorís opinions can change with time. When attributing a
statement or idea to a person, therefore, use the past tense: ìMax Weber may no longer be saying what
he once saidî (Starbuck 1999).