Convergence and Divergence: Interfaces between Ethnicity and Organisational Culture

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Periodical article

Title:	Convergence and Divergence: Interfaces between Ethnicity and Organisational Culture
Author:	Herselman, Stephne
Year:	2001
Periodical:	South African Journal of Ethnology
Volume:	24
Issue:	4
Pages:	125-130
Language:	English
Geographic term:	South Africa
Subjects:	industrial sociology ethnicity labour relations Ethnic and Race Relations Economics and Trade
Abstract:	Given the almost simultaneous developments in processes of 'ethnicizing' and the interest in organizational culture, an investigation of interfaces between ethnicity and organizational culture seems to be in order. This paper explores the dynamics that produce and maintain manifestations of ethnic identity, and sees ethnicity as a process of interaction between 'objective category' and 'subjective identity' with a particular business environment and specifically in relation to its culture. The research upon which the paper is based was designed as a qualitative holistic enquiry of sociocultural diversity in a business environment. Research participants were employees of a wholesale distribution company operating in the food industry in Krugersdorp, South Africa. The paper concludes that, although ethnic identity is clearly a reality within the company, of greater significance in shaping the functioning of employees are the values associated with the company's corporate culture. Bibliogr., sum. in English and Afrikaans.