[4] Causal layered analysis (CLA) is a theory and method that seeks to integrate empiricist, interpretive, critical, and action learning modes of research.
[7] The cognitive structure, which depicts the ideology of each layer of CLA, is based on the principals and theories of some thinkers such Michel Foucault, Johan Galtung, William Irwin Thompson, and P.R.
Inayatullah sought to create a method that went beyond traditional forecasting techniques, which often focused solely on surface-level trends and data.
Since its development, CLA has been applied in various fields, including business strategy, public policy, and educational reform.
Sohail Inaytullah’s work on CLA has led to numerous academic publications, and his approach has been recognized for its innovative contribution to the field and has been integrated into future studies courses and programs worldwide.