Search

Your search keyword '"Plows, Alexandra"' showing total 34 results
Start Over Author "Plows, Alexandra"
34 results on '"Plows, Alexandra"'

1. Labour Market Intermediaries: A Corrective to the Human Capital Paradigm (Mis)matching Skills and Jobs?

Author

Dobbins, Tony and Plows, Alexandra

Abstract

The orthodox supply-side human capital theory (HCT) paradigm is inadequate for understanding and adjusting to labour market volatility in UK regional economies like Wales. This article explores the role of regional labour market intermediaries (LMIs) in matching supply (skills) and demand (job opportunities) in regional labour markets. Some LMIs emerge because the HCT paradigm is failing. One Welsh LMI, Shaping the Future (StF), is explored empirically using qualitative methods. StF mainly adopted HCT tenets, but with some emergent demand-side focus. Despite helping workers adjust to labour market shocks, LMIs are not equipped to fix the structural demand-side problem of finite quality job opportunities in deindustrialized regions that accentuate skill use. A broader "skill eco-system" paradigm is required, emphasising the foundational economy.

Published
2017
Full Text
View/download PDF

2. Praxis and practice : the 'what, how and why' of the UK environmental direct action movement in the 1990s

Author

Plows, Alexandra Jane and Day, Graham

Subjects
322, Social movements
Abstract

This thesis is an ethnographic study of UK environmental social movement mobilisations of the 1990s, detailing the movement's characteristics such as its structure as a fluid series of biodegradable networks. The thesis evidences what action was taken during this period, using primarily qualitative methodologies: semi-structured interviews and Participant Observation (PO). Evidence showing how mobilisation occurred, how activist networks are 'born' and sustained, is given, examining issues such as the diffusion of repertoires over time, and the importance of social networks. The "why" of mobilisation was documented, detailing activists' rationales for action given in interviews and a variety of other media such as email groups and in PO settings. The thesis approached the data from a 'grounded theory' perspective, meaning that appropriate theoretical directions developed during the research process. There were however initial aims: to investigate whether the EDA movement had a 'collective identity' (Melucci 1996), and hypotheses: that activists had complex rationales for taking action, and that there was a symbiosis between the taking of action, the development of movement praxis and collective identity, and the process of further mobilisation. These aims and hypotheses were realised by the research work. Despite many complexities outlined in the research, generally the EDA movement has a collective identity. This is based on a shared commitment to direct action, grassroots democracy, and a radical discourse, which challenges the codes and perceived abuses of power inherent in the dominant paradigm. Social justice, human rights, and environmental sustainability are equally important to EDA activists and seen as interrelated. Through charting the process of action in the 1990's, the thesis locates the 'anti globalisation' mobilisations at the turn of the millennium as evidence of EDA movement capacity building over a decade. The thesis aims to have contributed to Social Movement theory through this ethnographic approach.

Published
2002

7. Contesting the politics of neoliberal resilience: regional labour market resilience from a workers' perspective.

Author

Dobbins, Tony and Plows, Alexandra

Subjects
DEINDUSTRIALIZATION, EMPLOYEES, EMPLOYMENT
Abstract

The concept of resilience has been captured by a neoliberal discourse displacing responsibility to individuals and regions. This article specifically examines the regional labour market resilience of workers and other regional stakeholders relating to an ongoing economic restructuring process of deindustrialization and redundancies in Anglesey, North West Wales, in the UK. Using 11 years of longitudinal qualitative research, we provide an empirical narrative that applies a labour market resilience framework (challenge, context, responses and outcomes) from a workers' perspective. It connects the empirical findings from this critical case study to broader generalizability for regional studies and regional policy implications. Regarding generalizability to regional studies theory, the labour market resilience of workers is impacted at different but interlinking levels: the global systemic level of neo-liberal capitalism; the national country level of institutional varieties of capitalism (liberal market economies versus coordinated market economies); and regional variations across countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published
2023
Full Text
View/download PDF

10. Towards an analysis of the 'success' of UK green protests

Author

Plows, Alexandra

Subjects
Environmental movement -- Analysis, Environmental movement -- Social aspects, Environmentalists -- Political activity, Environmentalists -- Social aspects, Environmentalists -- Demonstrations and protests, Environmental sustainability -- Political aspects, Environmental sustainability -- Social aspects, Political science
Published
2008

12. Environmental direct action in Manchester, Oxford and North Wales: a protest event analysis

Author

Doherty, Brian, Plows, Alexandra, and Wall, Derek

Subjects
Electioneering -- Evaluation, Political campaigns -- Evaluation, Environmental movement -- Evaluation, Political issue, Environmental issues, International relations, Political science
Abstract

The article analyzes protest events by local environmental direct action groups in Manchester, Oxford, and Bangor in North Wales between 1992 and 2001. Evidence suggests most groups worked independently and their protests challenged the basic norms of political and capitalist establishments.

Published
2007

14. Blackwood roads protest 2004: An emerging (Re)cycle of UK eco-action?

Author

Plows, Alexandra

Subjects
United Kingdom -- Environmental policy, Road construction -- Demonstrations and protests, Environmental movement -- Analysis, Environmentalists -- Demonstrations and protests, Environmental issues, International relations, Political science
Abstract

The possibility of re-emergence of the UK eco-action is discussed by examining the theory that re-engagement with 'single issue' environmental protests is a likely direction for the UK direct action movement. There is an evidence of mobilization potential, which is inactive but susceptible, and campaigns that focus on eco-action in the UK.

Published
2006

16. The fuel protests of 2000: implications for the environmental movement in Britain

Author

Doherty, Brian, Paterson, Matthew, Plows, Alexandra, and Wall, Derek

Subjects
United Kingdom -- Environmental policy, Environmental policy -- United Kingdom, Environmental movement -- Political aspects, Energy policy -- Environmental aspects, Populism -- Analysis, Nationalism -- Analysis, Environmental issues, International relations, Political science
Abstract

An analysis is presented on the demonstrations against higher fuel prices in the United Kingdom that occurred in September of 2000. The analysis goes beyond an interpretation of the demonstrations as a backlash against environmentalism, and examines the issue from a nationalist/populist perspective.

Published
2002

17. Messy Ethnographies in Action

Author

Plows, Alexandra and Plows, Alexandra

Abstract

This edited collection of chapters showcases original and interdisciplinary ethnographic fieldwork in a range of international settings; including studies of underground pub life in North East England; Finnish hotels; and bio-scientific institutions in the Amazonian rainforest. Informed by John Law’s concept of ethnographic “mess,” this book makes a unique, empirically-informed, contribution to an understanding of the social construction of knowledge and the role that ethnography can and does play (Law, 2004). It provides a range of colourful snapshots from the field, showing how different researchers from multiple research environments and disciplines are negotiating the practicalities, and epistemological and ethical implications, of “messy” ethnographic practice as a means of researching “messy” social realities. Law notes that “social…science investigations interfere with the world…things change as a result. The issue, then, is not to seek disengagement but rather with how to engage” (ibid p14). Drawing on their own situated experiences, the book’s contributors address the “messy” implications of this and also explore the (equally messy) issue of why engage. They reflect on the process of undertaking research, and their role in the research process as they negotiate their own position in the field. What is ethnography “for”? What impact should, or do, we have in the field and after we leave the research site? What about unintended consequences? When (if ever) are we “off duty?” What does “informed consent” mean in a constantly shifting, dynamic ethnographic context? Is ethnography by its very nature a form of “action research?” By providing a wide range of situated explorations of “messy ethnographies,” the book presents a unique, hands-on guide to the challenges of negotiating ethnography in practice, which will be of use to all researchers and practitioners who use ethnography as a method.

Published
2019

18. Messy Ethnographies in Action

Author

Plows, Alexandra and Plows, Alexandra

Subjects
Ethnology--Methodology, Ethnology--Philosophy
Abstract

This edited collection of chapters showcases original and interdisciplinary ethnographic fieldwork in a range of international settings; including studies of underground pub life in North East England; Finnish hotels; and bio-scientific institutions in the Amazonian rainforest. Informed by John Law's concept of ethnographic “mess,” this book makes a unique, empirically-informed, contribution to an understanding of the social construction of knowledge and the role that ethnography can and does play (Law, 2004). It provides a range of colourful snapshots from the field, showing how different researchers from multiple research environments and disciplines are negotiating the practicalities, and epistemological and ethical implications, of “messy” ethnographic practice as a means of researching “messy” social realities. Law notes that “social…science investigations interfere with the world…things change as a result. The issue, then, is not to seek disengagement but rather with how to engage” (ibid p14). Drawing on their own situated experiences, the book's contributors address the “messy” implications of this and also explore the (equally messy) issue of why engage. They reflect on the process of undertaking research, and their role in the research process as they negotiate their own position in the field. What is ethnography “for”? What impact should, or do, we have in the field and after we leave the research site? What about unintended consequences? When (if ever) are we “off duty?” What does “informed consent” mean in a constantly shifting, dynamic ethnographic context? Is ethnography by its very nature a form of “action research?” By providing a wide range of situated explorations of “messy ethnographies,” the book presents a unique, hands-on guide to the challenges of negotiating ethnography in practice, which will be of use to all researchers and practitioners who use ethnography as a method.

Published
2018

20. 'The preferred way of doing things: the British direct action movement

Author

Doherty, Brian, Plows, Alexandra, and Wall, Derek

Subjects
Strategic Arms Limitation treaties -- Evaluation, Market trend/market analysis, Government, Political science, Economic and Social Research Council -- Powers and duties
Abstract

The nature of the British direct action movement, interpreting in its protests in terms of the strategic rationales given by its activists is defined, based on ethnographic research funded by the Economic and Social Research Council.

Published
2003

21. Acting locally: local environmental mobilisations and campaigns

Author

ROOTES, Christopher, SAUNDERS, Clare, DIANI, Mario, RAMBALDO, Elisa, KOUSIS, Maria, DOHERTY, Brian, PLOWS, Alexandra, WALL, Derek, FRANQUEMAGNE, Gaël, GARAVAN, Mark, DELLA PORTA, Donatella, and PIAZZA, Gianni

Subjects
Environmental movements, Social mobilization, Political protest, Spatial analysis, Organizational analysis, Alliances, Activism, Local communities, Collective action, Community organization, Regional variation, Social networks
Published
2007

22. Trouble with biocitizenship : duties responsibility, identity

Author

Plows, Alexandra and Boddington, Paula

Abstract

Genetic and other biotechnologies are starting to impact significantly upon society and individuals within it. Rose and Novas draw on an analysis of many patient groups to sketch out the broad notion of biocitizenship as a device for describing how the empowered and informed individual, group or network can engage with bioscience. In this paper, we examine critically the notion of biocitizenship, drawing on both sociological fieldwork that grounds the debate in the views of a large and varied group of concerned actors. Using work within green politics, we identify shortcomings in the concept of biocitizenship as it has so far been explicated. The value assumptions lying behind an account of biocitizenship, and its tendency to see issues through a reductive lens, are examined. Alternative views of values and goals, which may undermine any alleged rights and duties, are explored using interviews and other ethnographic data that illustrates the complexity of the terrain. The reductive lens of biocitizenship is explored through contrast with the wider scope of concerns emanating from various sources, including many within green politics. If such complexities are not recognised, there is a danger that a concept of biocitizenship may serve to create and amplify inequalities. Problems with identity issues are key: the construction of identity is complex and many groups are explicitly rejecting the ‘biological’ label. We discuss the multiple relations of citizens with the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Arguably, existing inequalities in power relationships, exploitation, commodification and ownership patterns are being perpetuated in novel ways through the new biosciences. We pose the question of whether it is possible to construct a concept of biocitizenship that overcomes these problems.

Published
2006

23. Labour market intermediaries: a corrective to the human capital paradigm (mis)matching skills and jobs?

Author

Dobbins, Tony and Plows, Alexandra

Subjects
*LABOR market, *HUMAN capital, *MARKET volatility, *SKILLED labor, *SUPPLY & demand
Abstract

The orthodox supply-side human capital theory (HCT) paradigm is inadequate for understanding and adjusting to labour market volatility in UK regional economies like Wales. This article explores the role of regional labour market intermediaries (LMIs) in matching supply (skills) and demand (job opportunities) in regional labour markets. Some LMIs emerge because the HCT paradigm is failing. One Welsh LMI, Shaping the Future (StF), is explored empirically using qualitative methods. StF mainly adopted HCT tenets, but with some emergent demand-side focus. Despite helping workers adjust to labour market shocks, LMIs are not equipped to fix the structural demand-side problem of finite quality job opportunities in deindustrialized regions that accentuate skill use. A broader ‘skill eco-system’ paradigm is required, emphasising the foundational economy. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Published
2017
Full Text
View/download PDF

24. Another science for another world?: Science and genomics at the London Social Forum

Author

Welsh, Ian, Plows, Alexandra, Evans, Robert, and Cardiff University

Subjects
H1
Abstract

The 3rd meeting of the European Social Forum was held in London during October 2004 with a broad ranging formal agenda and a penumbra of affiliated workshops and cultural activities. This paper focuses upon a range of sessions dealing with science in general and the sciences of human genetics in particular. Through participant observation this paper details the representations of science by ESF actors, their use of the ESF as a ‘convergence space’ for global activist network interaction and the various ways in which participants sought to create a more socially responsible and accountable science. Drawing on observations of, and participation in, these sessions we describe how scientific knowledge and practices were portrayed in the context of neo-liberal market relations by both ‘producers’ and ‘consumers’ of techno-science. The concluding section considers the implications of (re)negotiating scientific and social orders within such open network spaces. It is argued that ‘broad and shallow’ and ‘narrow and deep’ approaches towards public understanding of science need to be supplemented by the ‘broad and diverse’ processes typifying the forum milieu.

Published
2004

33. The real earth movers

Author

Vidal, John, Plows, Alexandra, and Monbiot, George

Subjects
Road construction -- Demonstrations and protests, Environmental protection -- Public participation, General interest, News, opinion and commentary
Abstract

The 'Battle of Twyford Down' in which people trying to prevent the building of a road through Twyford Down above Winchester, England, were brutally assaulted by private security guards on Dec. 9, 1992, completely changed the nature of protest in Britain. Two years later, the 45 million pound sterling cutting through the chalk down is complete, but non-violent direct action by anti-road groups has become commonplace throughout Britain. Ordinary people are coming together to protest at the destruction of the environment while the established environmental groups risk being left out.

Published
1994

Catalog

Books, media, physical & digital resources
See catalog results