Professionalism from an Institutional Logics View

Abstract

This chapter introduces a few theoretical terms and points out some caveats with these terms that are perhaps not always apparent. It takes the form of a discussion between concepts around professions and professionalism, and the abstract theory of institutional logics. The chapter begins by discussing the term ‘profession’, and recognizes a need for a more detailed way of discussing the characteristics of professionalism. In order to develop this, the chapter looks at the theory of institutional logics, drawing on Freidson's framework, to set the stage for a more distinct discussion of professionalism and its relation to markets and bureaucracy. It then turns to discussing professional service organization. The chapter outlines these theoretical influences in what the author chosen to call a ‘Janusian’ view on institutional logics.