Resistance and power in organizations

About this book

This state of the art collection develops the theme of resistance from below in everyday organizational life. Building on a body of theory dealing with power, control and domination in the labour process, international contributors expand the analysis by focusing on material circumstances and subjective states that lead to subtle forms of subversion and sabotage as well as to more overt forms of defiance and protest. Throughout the volume discussion is supported by case studies, interviews, surveys and ethnographic data drawn from around the world to reveal resistance practices which range from those hidden in the 'crawl-spaces' of organizations to those that are more public and demonstrative. Recent developments in critical social theory are used to provoke thinking about resistance both as a response to power and a form of power. Uniquely, the contributions show that oppressive practices at work can be met with powerful counterforces, and that resistance need not only take the form of 'quiet resilience'. Presenting an empowering view of insubordination, this volume will be of interest to those in the fields of organizational sociology, organizational behaviour, industrial and labour relations and women's studies.