HRM: modernist project or postmodern discourse?

Abstract

Chapter 9 locates the critical analysis of HRM in a much broader socio-cultural context than that considered in chapter 3. The focus of the chapter is to bring together the strands of the in the other chapters that identify HRM in terms of rhetoric and discourse. HRM is 'deconstructed' as a phenomenon whose importance lies largely in its existence as a rhetoric and discourse that serves the interests of a range of influential stakeholders who have an interest in hype-ing the extent and depth of its facticity. 'Deconstructing' HRM here has a serious intent, for in pulling apart its assumptions, exploring its paradoxes and contradictions, postmodern analysis is used 'as a positive technique for making trouble; an affront to every normal and comfortable habit of thought.