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.

Statistics for this ePrint Item

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/School / Institute/Centre:	Historic - Faculty of Business - School of Accounting, Economics and Finance (1 Apr 2007 - 31 Dec 2010)
Faculty/School / Institute/Centre:	Historic - Faculty of Business - School of Accounting, Economics and Finance (1 Apr 2007 - 31 Dec 2010)
Date Deposited:	12 May 2009 03:03
Last Modified:	02 Jul 2013 23:11
Uncontrolled Keywords:	academic work conditions
Fields of Research (2008):	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 Objectives (2008):	C Society > 93 Education and Training > 9302 Teaching and Instruction > 930202 Teacher and Instructor Development
Identification Number or DOI:	https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpa.2008.01.008
URI:	http://eprints.usq.edu.au/id/eprint/4723

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