A critical theory perspective on the pressures, contradictions and dilemmas faced by entry-level accounting academics

James, Kieran (2008) A critical theory perspective on the pressures, contradictions and dilemmas faced by entry-level accounting academics. Critical Perspectives on Accounting, 19 (8). pp. 1263-1295. ISSN 1045-2354

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Abstract

This paper is a study of the accounting academic labour market and workplace conditions. Its particular focus is on the pressures, contradictions and dilemmas experienced by junior (Level A and B) accounting academics at Australian universities. It is argued that, due to work, personal and family pressures, many junior staff members may struggle to complete their PhD within a prescribed time frame. The reasons for this are discussed, as well as the likely effects. The Marxist concept of 'alienation' is explored in detail to explain how a junior staff member’s work 'product' may take on a life of its own which stands up in opposition to her/him, to accuse her/him. The writings of the first-generation critical theorist, Herbert Marcuse, are used to suggest a radical path forward for the junior staff member. She/he is encouraged to take charge of her/his own destiny from within, value personal relationships, and pursue scholarship for its own sake. Opportunities for resistance are also explored in the paper.

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Item Type:	Article (Commonwealth Reporting Category C)
Refereed:	Yes
Item Status:	Live Archive
Additional Information:	Accepted manuscript deposted in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.
Faculty / Department / School:	Historic - Faculty of Business - School of Accounting, Economics and Finance
Date Deposited:	12 May 2009 03:03
Last Modified:	02 Jul 2013 23:11
Uncontrolled Keywords:	academic work conditions
Fields of Research :	13 Education > 1301 Education Systems > 130103 Higher Education 15 Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services > 1501 Accounting, Auditing and Accountability > 150101 Accounting Theory and Standards 13 Education > 1302 Curriculum and Pedagogy > 130203 Economics, Business and Management Curriculum and Pedagogy
Socio-Economic Objective:	C Society > 93 Education and Training > 9302 Teaching and Instruction > 930202 Teacher and Instructor Development
Identification Number or DOI:	10.1016/j.cpa.2008.01.008
URI:	http://eprints.usq.edu.au/id/eprint/4723

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