Key Concepts in Work

Citation

McNeil, N. (2008), "Key Concepts in Work", Management Research News, Vol. 31 No. 11, pp. 895-896. https://doi.org/10.1108/01409170810913079

“Work” is a central feature of modern societies. The varying definitions, experiences and contexts of work provide a challenging framework for the studying the ramifications of work for individuals and wider society and its implications for organisational performance.

“Key concepts in work” presents an authoritative synopsis of the main ideas, debates and theories relevant to work in industrial societies. The authors provide a catalogue of the main ideas that have shaped our understanding of work over the last century. In doing so, Blyton and Jenkins consider the persistent dilemmas facing workers and organisations, the early ideas that have shaped the employment relationship and the contemporary challenges facing today's workers and organisations. The authors seamlessly integrate many of the social, economics, psychological and political dimensions of work, thus presenting a balanced inspection of the nature of work in modern societies.

Blyton and Jenkins preface their examination of the key concepts in work by highlighting some of difficulties in studying the “world of work”. The authors acknowledge that the activities deemed as work can be very broad, encompassing a diverse array of endeavours such as paid work, volunteering, caring or domestic duties. Further, the study of work and organisations requires students to have a grasp of multiple disciplines, including economics, psychology, sociology, business management and politics. These enduring challenges to the study of work reinforce the importance and value of a thorough and succinct reference guide.

The book presents some 46 “key concepts” relevant to the study of work. The authors discuss the classical theories that have shaped our understanding of work and organisations, such as Scientific Management, Bureaucracy, Fordism, Labour Process Theory and the Human Relations Movement. Some other key ideas relating to work are examined, such as career, motivation, job design, conflict, power and authority. Blyton and Jenkins also consider some work‐related concepts that are popular subjects of research and commentary, such as working time, employee commitment, job security, participation and work intensification. Other contemporary ideas relevant to the experience and context of work are explored, including “presenteeism”, flexibility, knowledge work, work‐life balance and worker alienation. Each concept is clearly defined and examined with rigour, informed by seminal studies and other published research. Some guidance for further reading is also provided.

The text has many strengths. It is exceptionally well written, capturing the key elements and studies relating to each concept in an intellectually engaging and concise manner. The fundamental ideas, debates and theories of work are clearly explained, and convey the intricate complexities of the employment relationship. The authors present an appropriate mix of concepts, ranging from early ideas about management through to modern phenomena, such as teleworking and globalisation. Blyton and Jenkins have also drawn important linkages between the concepts. This cross‐referencing highlights the relationships between the ideas presented, and facilitates a critical appraisal of the knowledge base of this field.

“Key concepts in work” provides readers with an informative and sound foundation for further exploration of main ideas and debates surrounding work. It is an essential reference guide for any student interested in the study of work, employment and organisations. The text would make a welcome and valued addition to any undergraduate or postgraduate reading list, or practitioner's library. It is highly recommended.