J.M. Halsema

Jobs that matter: Butler's “performativity” in the Dutch police force

Purpose – The purpose of this research is to examine the use that critical philosophical concepts can have within management studies.Design/methodology/approach – The paper introduces the notion “performativity” from the American philosopher Judith Butler and shows its fertility for organisation theory. It applies the notion to a case of the introduction of a job evaluation system within the Dutch police.Findings – Although the notion of “performativity” has a broad range, its effects for gender are especially significant. The paper identifies what meanings are reproduced in the job evaluation system; examining what are the consequences of the system for women and how does it influence the gender division. Job evaluation, it is concluded, creates an organisational reality, which produces.Practical implications – Using philosophical reflection processes of meaning making in practice are revealed and clarified. Gender bias in job evaluation is made visible.Originality/value – Engagement with Judith Butlers...