Between formal and informal rhythms. An exploration of affective subjectifi cation in supervisors’ working life

Abstract

In this article we explore the downsides of working life among relatively young academic teachers at Roskilde University. Theoretically, we are inspired by Lefebvre’s (2004) rhythm analysis and the Foucault inspired concept of affective subjectifi cation. In the article we will show the potentials of combining these two analytical approaches by developing an affective dimension in the rhythm analytical perspective. With this perspective on working life as a supervisor, we have gained insight into how the supervisor’s daily rhythms are created in interaction with formalized rhythms in the organization. Based on a collective biography written by three relatively new and temporarily employed supervisors (Davies, 2001), we explore the affective subjectivation in the formal and informal rhythms of working life. Here, it emerges that supervisors experience uncertainty in relation to becoming familiar with existing rhythms as well as how to aligning themselves with them. Supervisors also experience how simultaneous rhythms collide and create dissonance. Our analysis shows how both formal and informal rhythms and especially the tension between them implies an affective subjectifi cation key to supervisors. We identify an interesting paradox; inadvertently, a progressive pedagogical university contains affective pushes towards a neoliberal competitive infrastructure placing temporarily employed staff in a particularly challenging situation.