Project R-14330

Exploring the Role of Non-Human Animal Workers Within the Domain of "Animal Organisation Studies". (Research)

Animals are an important part of our Western economies and are particularly "useful" to humans. Among other things, they contribute to food supply (through the dairy and meat industries), security (through police and military units), health (through therapy animals) and human recreation (through tourism and hobbies). People work side-by-side with animals in several occupations. Consider farmers and livestock, working blind people and guide dogs, mounted police, policymakers and the wolf, veterinarians and pets, professional breeders of all kinds of animals, top athletes in equestrian sports, slaughterers in slaughterhouses and so on. Although the productive expectations of animals in such situations 2023-10-26 vary greatly, they are all characterized by intensive cooperation between humans and animals, whether under pressure or not. In this PhD, the researcher embarks on a literature review of the new theoretical field known as "animal organization studies," then chooses a well-defined empirical field and applies qualitative research methods to gain more knowledge about animals as workers. In doing so, she reflects on innovative research methods that are best suited to give animals a voice in management and organisation studies. Finally, she appropriates a critical stance towards human dominance over animals and is attentive to animal wellbeing.

01 October 2023 - 30 September 2027