Images, ideals and constraints in times of neoliberal transformations: Reproduction and profession as conflicting or complementary spheres in academia?

Abstract

The article deals with structural, cultural and habitual concepts, principles and ideals of parenthood in the German academic working context. It focuses on social processes of transformation and reconfiguration of reproduction and profession, which means within work and family spheres and especially within academia in times of neoliberalism, economisation and globalisation. Discursive and biographical research results of two German research projects will be linked to trace current developments of gender relations concerning the compatibility of scientific work and family. Using an analytical governmental perspective, we reveal findings concerning the subject and identity formations of scientists and parents. The insights and conclusions obtained will be discussed and evaluated in terms of the interdependencies between the spheres of production and reproduction in neoliberalism.