Social science research has lost its way. Much of it is far too specialized, full of inaccessible jargon and cut off from the urgent problems facing our society. This book identifies the cause of the problem and offers a range of constructive measures to bring meaning and relevance back in to social science research.
Focusing on the interplay between communication and power within organizations, this book explores how these dynamics shape organizational structures and influence decision-making processes. It delves into various communication strategies and their impact on authority and control, offering insights into the complexities of organizational behavior. The work is essential for understanding the role of communication in fostering effective leadership and collaboration in diverse settings.
Gender underpins contemporary organizational structure and practice, but is often relegated to the margins of mainstream organization theory. This volume provides a comprehensive, gendered perspective on organizational life. MatsAlvesson and Yvonne Due Billing demonstrate that a gendered perspective provides important insights into the actions of men and women in organizations and, as a result, the characteristics of organizations as a whole. Considering the complex and contradictory nature of gender relations, Alvesson and Billing argue for an organizational analysis that is sensitive to conflicts, ambiguity and local diversity.
The book views the contemporary economy as an economy of persuasion where firms and institutions assign resources to rhetoric, image and reputation rather than production of goods and services. It examines critically phenomena such as the knowledge society, consumption, higher education, organizational change, professionalization and leadership
Why do smart people do stupid things at work? Welcome to the idea of functional stupidity.
Focusing on the concept of knowledge within work and organizations, the book critically examines contemporary knowledge management practices and the dynamics of the 'knowledge economy.' It presents various case studies of 'knowledge-intensive' environments, offering insights into how organizations leverage knowledge for success. The author challenges existing paradigms and encourages readers to rethink traditional approaches to managing knowledge in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Exploring the multifaceted nature of culture, the book delves into its profound impact on organizational dynamics. Mats Alvesson's engaging writing style guides readers through various interpretations of culture, revealing how these perspectives shape workplace environments and influence behaviors. The insights provided are particularly valuable for instructors seeking to enhance their understanding of cultural frameworks within organizations.
The book critiques traditional interviewing methods through eight original metaphors, prompting researchers to reflect on the implications and challenges of their interview practices. It encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in conducting interviews, ultimately aiming to enhance the quality and effectiveness of research methodologies.
InhaltsverzeichnisFrontmatter -- 1 Introduction -- 2 Description of Enator AB -- 3 Culture Theory -- 4 Qualitative Research and Philosophy of Science -- 5 A Socialization Sequence: Course in Project Management Philosophy -- 6 A Flat Pyramid. A Symbolic Processing of Organizational Structure -- 7 Corporate Culture and the Organizational Climate -- 8 Leadership as Social Integrative Action -- 9 Personnel and the Work Situation -- 10 The Business Concept as a Symbol -- 11 Strategy -- 12 Marketing - External and Internal -- 13 Integration and Contradictions -- 14 Corporate Control via Symbols -- References
Rationality, Ideology and Quality of Work
Frontmatter -- Preface -- Contents -- 0. Introduction -- 1. Metatheoretical and Methodological Points of Departure -- 2. Work Conditions in Modern Society -- 3. The Importance of Work to the Individual -- 4. Personality, Adjustment and Work Organization -- 5. Job Satisfaction, Motivation and Meaning of Work -- 6. Theories of Organization and Work Conditions -- 7. Organization Theory and Ideology -- 8. Organizations, Culture and Ideology -- 9. Working Life and Technological Rationality -- 10. A Critical Framework for Organizational Analysis -- References -- Author Index -- Subject Index -- Backmatter