S Struggle and resistance at the workplace, and beyond (AWOrg Teil II) (080233-WiSe 2024/25)

This course delves into key approaches and recent developments in the sociology of work, employment, and labor relations. We focus specifically on the role of labor conflict and power struggles within the context of a changing international political economy and broader social transformations. Beginning with an understanding of labor as conflict and thus with a view to ongoing struggles between workers and employers over wages, working conditions, job security, and the key role of power and control in shaping labor relations, we learn about critical theories to conflict, accommodation, control, and resistance, and examine workers’ negotiations and struggles at the workplace, along with new alliances formed with social and political actors outside the traditional labor movement.

The course explores the experiences of various social groups of workers, including women, migrants, and low-waged worker across different sectors such as platform work, hospitality, and cleaning. We investigate the roles of various actors and institutions, from trade unions, and labor movements to newer workers’ rights organizations, and their networks, both in the global North and South. Through the study of key theories and international developments, we will engage with case studies and map labor struggles to understand the dynamics of power and resistance.

Voraussetzungen für Studiennachweise / Modulprüfungen

Language of instruction and discussion of this course is English. There is no requirement on participants to possess a high level of proficiency in English, but the willingness to use and improve your English language skills is essential. The course is premised on intensive reading in preparation for the weekly sessions and it will train students in academic reading as a key study skill that is crucial in order to gain in-depth knowledge. We will discuss the weekly readings and organize group work, supplemented by additional material and further input that help us understand the conceptual and empirical contributions of each text. Students will take over smaller tasks in preparation of particular sessions and do some (internet-based) research a chosen example that help us map recent struggles and resistance (Studiennachweis). Graded examination (Modulprüfung) consists of an oral exam or a written term paper (Hausarbeit, 15 pages, in English or German language).