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Hefted: Reconfiguring Work, Value andMobility in the UK Lake District

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Abstract

The production of financial value by organisations through highly mobile products and services is increasingly contested by recognition of the more-than-financial aspects of valuation practices, particularly regarding the quality or moral value of work experiences and the dignity of workers. The role of nonhuman animals is frequently overlooked despite the significance of animal contributions to labour and manufacture, yet contributes to this debate. We generate new insights to valuation by reflecting on the mobility of nonhumans. Discussing the Herdwick sheep breed of Cumbria, we illustrate how the image and narrative of these sheep is mobilised to add value not only to Herdwick products but to human work. We highlight how hefting, the concept of establishing a deep-rooted connection between sheep and place, stands in contrast to dominant logics of speed and efficiency and is employed to overcome devaluation of the worker in this mountainous and isolated region.

Acceptance Date Mar 9, 2018
Publication Date Jun 27, 2018
Journal Culture and Organization
Print ISSN 1475-9551
Publisher Routledge
Pages 303-317
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/14759551.2018.1488850
Keywords mobility, value, dignity, rural work
Publisher URL https://doi.org/10.1080/14759551.2018.1488850

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