Critically discuss the following statement with reference to relevant theory and practice: ‘Gender equality is not just good for women in organizations it is good for all organizational members’.

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WEEK 6: The masculine organization

Discuss: Acker, J., 1990. Hierarchies, jobs, bodies: A theory of gendered organizations. Gender & Society, 4(2), pp.139-158.

This article main focal point argues the notion that organisational structure is in fact not gender neutral. The author ambiguously conveys that the “social norms” about gender is in fact constructed on incorrect grounds, explaining that what is made socially acceptable is developed around the notion of a male. The author disproves the ‘one size fits all’ attitude the patriarchal organisations have created, drawing light on marginalisation of women in organisations.

The main investigative methods utilized included researching previous studies of other analysts in the field, looking at both feminist and patriarchally oriented work. It becomes evident the gendered nature of organisations is disguised by the abstract and subjective nature of work. The gender-neutral attitude created by organisation usually embodies a universal worker without no gender subjection, the author reiterates throughout her writing that this persona is in fact a male. This male embodies the mentality, sexuality and masculinity, effectively marginalising women and therefore contributing to the ever-growing segregations of females in organisations.

The authors view on the marginalisation of women in organisations resonates with many of the newfound issues with society today, relating to many women in the field. She explains the difficulty feminists will place in the efforts to draw theories on organisation, as it may seem that they are in fact lacking common sense by transcending social norms. She shares her hopes of women going beyond the glass ceiling in organisations and that the continuation of feminists drawing new theories and approaches should be encouraged as this will contribute to the eradication of the subordination of woman and perhaps transform the patriarchal social norms o embedded within society and organisation.