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‘Recognition’ and ‘interest’: a multidimensional concept in the sociology of work

For decades, the German sociology of work had been dominated by a Marxism-inspired paradigm of interest. More recently, however, a paradigm of identity and recognition has gained prominence. This change is closely linked to a shift in the socio-theoretical, socio-political, and normative discourse as well as to a shift in labor relations, where identity, subjectivity, and recognition claims have become more important. The paradigm of recognition meets the requirements of these changes better than the old concept of interest. At the same time, however, the use of the concept of interest has become increasingly vague and has lost much of its explanatory power. Against this backdrop, the article argues for a multidimensional reconceptualization of ‘interest’ and ‘recognition’, which is necessary in order to save the concept of recognition from becoming a catch-all category. Based on the recognition theory of Axel Honneth and the contributions of Heinrich Popitz and Pierre Bourdieu, ‘interest’ is being conceptualized as a reflective form of a preference that makes actions calculable. The category of ‘interest identity’ will have a mediating role, conceived as the structure of those interests actors identify with as essential for their identity. The article argues for a concept of ‘recognition’ and ‘interest’ as complementary categories. Actors pursue an interest, and in doing so they seek recognition. But there can be a discrepancy of these action logics, too, which can lead to trade-offs between ‘recognition’ and ‘interest’. Moreover, ‘recognition’ and ‘interest’ can provide two distinct scripts for the articulation of concerns, disappointments, and conflicts among actors.