The knowledge worker: A critical analysis of the terms knowledge worker and its use

Abstract

This dissertation is a theoretical analysis of the in knowledge worker. It has three research objectives. Firstly, critique the term knowledge worker as it is represented in the functional knowledge management discourse. Secondly, investigate what is inferred in the use of the term knowledge worker. Thirdly, answer why the term is used. For the first objective it is argued that the term knowledge worker is a sublime object and is critiqued because of its association with a post-industrial discourse and the notion that knowledge workers are new. For the second objective, the dissertation argues that the use of the term knowledge worker infers a relationship with non-knowledge workers. This relationship implies that knowledge workers are different to non-knowledge workers as they have; higher education levels, a flexible working style, a 'new career', higher complexity in their work, different motivations, high levels of technology in their work, high amounts of esoteric knowledge in their work and elite status. For the third objective it is argued that the term knowledge worker is used to create a standard which other workers should adhere too. This standard serves managerial prerogatives of control and the right to higher and fire at will.