Deconstructing Dominance: Toward a Reconceptualization of the Relationship Between Collective and Individual Identities, Globalization, and Learning at Work
Human Resource Development Review
Published online on March 14, 2013
Abstract
Through this article, we assert that given the individual-oriented literature on identity, and the fact that workplaces are increasingly becoming globalized, collective identities might struggle and run up against dominant, individualistic forms of identity-formation. This struggle may have serious implications for workplace practices, including workplace learning. Through our reflective analysis on various identity-formation theories, we argue for a reconfiguration of workplaces and workplace learning to consider collective perspectives on identity-formation so that work can be more relevant and responsive to the plural needs of workers. Such a move may create a workspace that validates and values workers’ identity-differences.