Corazón gestionado: La comercialización del sentimiento humano

What is 'Managed Heart' about?

In this classic work, Arlie Russell Hochschild introduces the concept of "emotional labor," referring to the management of emotions as part of paid work, especially in the service sector. The book explores how companies commercialize employees' feelings, requiring them to display specific emotions as part of their job. Hochschild analyzes the psychological and social consequences of this commercialization, offering a profound critique of contemporary capitalist society. This book is fundamental to understanding the intersection of emotion, work, and gender.

About the Author

Arlie Russell Hochschild is a renowned American sociologist whose research has been pioneering in the sociology of emotions and gender studies. Her work has influenced multiple disciplines, and 'Managed Heart' is considered her most emblematic work. Although a detailed biography is not included in this edition, her reputation as a leading academic is widely recognized in the field.

Key Themes Explored

Hochschild addresses topics such as emotional alienation, the distinction between surface and deep emotional labor, and the personal cost of constant emotion management. She also examines how gender influences expectations of emotional labor, with women often tasked with performing this type of work to a greater extent. The book includes analyses of various work contexts, illustrating the differences in emotional demand depending on the occupation.

Impact and Legacy

Since its publication, 'Managed Heart' has been a fundamental text in sociology, social psychology, and gender studies. The concept of emotional labor has become integrated into popular culture and is a key analytical tool for understanding workplace interactions. It has inspired countless studies in occupations ranging from service workers to healthcare professionals. This book continues to be a required reference in university courses on emotions, work, and gender.

Relevance to Gender Studies

Given that the book falls into the category of gender studies, it is important to highlight how Hochschild links emotional labor to gender inequalities. She points out that women, historically, have been socialized to manage their own and others' emotions, leading them to bear a disproportionate burden of emotional labor in both the domestic and professional spheres. This perspective has been crucial for the development of feminist theories on work and the economy.

Who is this book for?

This book is essential for students and professionals in sociology, social psychology, gender studies, and work organization. It is also a revealing read for anyone interested in how emotions are shaped by work demands and capitalism. Readers looking to understand the dynamics of customer service, human resource management, or the intersection of gender and work will find fundamental analysis here.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is emotional labor? It is the management of emotions as part of job requirements, especially in service jobs.
• Is this book suitable for non-academics? Yes, although it is an academic work, it is written in an accessible way for any interested reader.
• Does it include updated references? This edition is the original, but the content remains relevant today.
• How does it relate to gender? Hochschild dedicates a significant portion to analyzing how gender influences the assignment and perception of emotional labor.