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Exploring the Foucauldian interpretation of power and subject in organizations

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  • Välikangas, Anita
  • Seeck, Hannele

Abstract

This paper assesses the recent contribution of Michel Foucault to the study of power and subject in organizations. First, we theoretically examine Foucault's thinking by dividing his works into archaeological, genealogical and aesthetic/ethical phases. We then conduct a review of 113 international journal articles from between the years 2000 and 2009. We do this in order to obtain an overview of the phases of Foucault's thinking that are prevalent in recent organization studies. We find that recent academic studies drawing on Foucault are increasingly leaning towards Foucault's writings on governmentality, as well as on his genealogical works, which have sustained their popularity. Reflecting the growing interest in governmentality and genealogy, we end by pointing out some avenues for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Välikangas, Anita & Seeck, Hannele, 2011. "Exploring the Foucauldian interpretation of power and subject in organizations," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 49807, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:49807
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Samuel Osei-Nimo & Cindy Millman & Emmanuel Aboagye-Nimo, 2022. "The Interplay of Alcohol and Wellbeing in the Workplace: Combining Soft Systems Methodology and Foucauldian Approach," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 35(6), pages 765-787, December.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Foucault; power; subject; organizations; management;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J50 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor-Management Relations, Trade Unions, and Collective Bargaining - - - General

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