Fundamental Tensions Stream 5: Exploring the Meaning of ‘Critique ’ in Electronically-Mediated Work

Is ethnomethodology critical? Some ethnomethodologists have argued that ethnomethodology is ill equipped to serve the emancipative and interventionist aims of critique: ethnomethodology cannot change the world; it leaves everything as it is (Sharrock and Anderson, 1991). Bogen and Lynch (1990) have similarly suggested that strategies other than ethnomethodology, such as informing people of their legal rights, would prove far more effective in addressing the inequalities of the world. Yet, for some, ethnomethodology and critique would appear to be at least cautious allies. As Anne Rawls (2002) notes: “Ethnomethodology cannot be indifferent to political, ethical or theoretical critique because that is essentially what it is. Ethnomethodology seeks to reveal the way in which taken for granted social practices maintain the appearance of things " (p. 54). We follow the thread of debate within the academic community and explore the critical potential of ethnomethodology in the context of research on computer-based work environments1. The revolutionary impact and continuing popularity of ethnomethodology in these areas suggests that this approach holds significant promise for the study of ICT in management research. Beyond the promise of applicability, our examination o