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Subjectivity and the Labour Process: Conceptualising 'Good Work'
Two central unresolved problems in labour process theory are the disjuncture between structure and agency and the problem of what constitutes `good' work. This paper argues that a hermeneutic conception of the self as constructed through narrative provides a resolution to these two issues. Hermeneutics conceptualises the self as neither a solitary entity impervious to the influence of others, nor as a mere reflection of objective structures or `discourses of power'. Rather, in the process of self-interpretation a person uses socially learnt cultural discourses to construct and reconstruct a coherent sense of narrative-identity. Substantive illustrations are drawn from labour process theory, recent developments in management theory, and some more general studies of the meaning of working.
History
Publication title
SociologyVolume
31Pagination
427-444ISSN
0038-0385Department/School
School of Social SciencesPublisher
Sage Publications LtdPlace of publication
6 Bonhill Street, London, England, Ec2A 4PuRepository Status
- Restricted