The Context-Dependent Nature of the Gendering of Technical Work: A Case Study of Work in a Scientific Laboratory

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Abstract
This paper looks at the context-dependent nature of the gendering of technology. The case study reported on explores the relationship between scientists and machines - both inside and outside - the laboratory, and considers how this affects the gender division of labour in the company concerned. The stereotypical view, of women as technophobic and men as technophilic, is challenged. However, the results show how the dominant masculinised discourse around technology is implicated in the under-representation of women in senior positions. The paper argues that, in addition to structural analysis of occupational segregation, an understanding of the dynamics of gender symbolism and identity also need to be incorporated into the debate.