Questions such as "Is lecturing the ideal part-time role or a female ghetto?" are posed alongside the idea that publications make publications, leading to non-linear disadvantages for those who take career breaks or work part-time in academia.The authors even go so far as to make strategical recommendations for women at different stages of their career such as in part-time employment or after a career break, and for managers and administrators in the university system, to make the most of female members of staff by recognising opportunities and encouraging productivity.
It is really interesting to see an article on such a topic published in Oikos, and for it to get such a large audience.
In their recommendations for adminstrators etc, O'Brien and Hapgood, p1004, 4th bullet, advocate including at least one woman on shortlists for 'all jobs'.
ReplyDeleteThis a both unworkable and a bad idea in principle.
Hey PJ.
DeleteWhen you first mentioned it I was surprised as I hadn't noticed any postivie discrimination in the article. But you're right - it had passed me by. What would be pros and cons?
In principle I think I disagree as well - much better to use their other reccommendations to ensure that their is a good supply of women at the right level of achievement to apply for such jobs.
Anyone think differently or can make the argument for positivie discrimination?
cliched, but two wrongs don't make a right, and is it not patronising to be inlcluded on grounds other than merit.
ReplyDeleteThe argument for parliamentary candidate shortlists is that it promotes representation of women in government.
Good point about the difference for parliamentary short lists... I think we are in agreement PJ. Sorry, let's find something else to have a good discussion about :)
Delete