Esquisse d'une sociologie critique de la nouvelle norme d'évaluation

Abstract

Nowadays, all - or almost all - must be subject to evaluation, and this is where France is said to be lagging behind. Yet, the pervasive neo evaluation trend is well ahead of standard evaluation processes. Based on the hypothesis derived from the organic unity and specific challenges attributed to this recent spin off, this article presents different criticisms which have been directed towards the new evaluation standards in the public sphere: At all its levels, from its conception to its implementation. If evaluation is not a good thing in its own right, triggering a zealous mindset, the author suggests that it must be considered as a dated social factor, inherently strange and complex, just one more among other innovative practices leading to "modernisation". A description of such practices follows the premise. Neo evaluation not only transforms statesmanship but also the working framework of a top down approach, as well as the subjective relationship of "everyone to his own trade". Next, it addresses the triangular social relations among the evaluator/the evaluated/the users, incurred by the generalisation of this obligation and the proliferation of interventions. Finally, given how the scales tip from the organic values held by the public service towards the competition embodied by market society, the author contemplates the hypothesis of establishing a technocracy that would remain outside of these practices, which are particularly destructive for commerce and result in effects such as overlegislation, social harassment and also, voluntary servitude. © E.N.A. Tous droits réservés pour tous pays.