Ideal as an introduction and as a quick reference, Key Concepts in Critical Management Studies explores the essential concepts used within the field today. Specially edited and written by a range of international experts, key ideas are succinctly explained and illustrated beyond a simple definition. Further reading suggestions and cross-referencing provide the reader with means to develop their knowledge further.

With over 50 entries, from Actor Network Theory to Utopianism, readers have instant access and explanation of the most influential concepts in CMS literature. Clear and engaging, this will provide strong support for all courses involving critical management and is a perfect resource for anyone with an interest in this field.

Discourse

Discourse
CliffOswick

Definition: Discourse is a process of meaning-making through talk and text.

Introduction

The study of discourse has emerged out of two different disciplinary traditions. On the one hand, discourse can be traced back to the field of socio-linguistics and its concern with the fine-grain analysis of language use. On the other hand, discourse has origins in philosophy and social theory with a focus on broader perspectives and interpretations. An overriding feature of discourse is that it has a constructivist orientation in which reality is seen to be subjective in nature and mediated by processes of social negotiation. In effect, discourse is ‘language use relative to social, political and cultural formations – it is language reflecting social order but also language shaping social order, and shaping individuals’ interaction ...

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