Professions and Proficiency

This open access book takes an original view on the social production of knowledge in and across space. It explores how people build and reproduce proficiency within and beyond the bounds of social groups. Social groups, such as professions, epistemic communities or academic disciplines, collectively organize to help individuals gain understanding of and knowledge about specific subjects of expertise. Yet, at the same time, they frame legitimate ways of thinking and learning, and they sanction other ways of knowing that are collectively seen as false, inelegant or inappropriate etc. The chapters include original research on how professions frame the creation, validation and transfer of knowledge, and how new knowledge and changing social discourses challenge and transform professions in particular geographical contexts. Part I looks into the social processes of professions and what actually makes qualifications, competence and proficiency. Part II elaborates on the dynamics that transform intangible knowledge by exploring, e.g., the legitimacy of scientists within society. Part III gives insights into how space influences the development of professional work, e.g., by reconstructing the historical formation of the psychology profession in Argentina. This volume provides a valuable read for scholars, students and professionals in the fields of innovation, knowledge creation and governance.