The New Securocracy and the “Police Concept” of Public Sector Worker Identity

Cliff Oswick, Stefano Harney and Gerard Hanlon

International Journal of Public Administration, 2008, vol. 31, issue 9, 1024-1036

Abstract: In recent years we have seen the emergence of a “new securocracy,” a generalization of responsibility for fighting terror within the public sector. Here we consider the nature and extent of this securocratic shift. In particular, the identity implications for the public sector worker are explored and we contend that there is an inherent tension between “serving” and “policing” the public in many public sector jobs. We also discuss the way in which a securocratic identity is simultaneously embraced and resisted. Finally, we present some tentative insights into an alternative way of thinking about identity work, which offers a means of extending conventional interpretations.

Date: 2008
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DOI: 10.1080/01900690801924033

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