Experiences of nonrecognition among offshore workers in the Campos basin: an approach based on Axel Honneth

Abstract

Our research focused on a specific group of workers – those employed in the petroleum industry in the Campos Basin (RJ) by Petrobrás – and service providers. Their interviews provide empirical material for a possible new approach to the offshore workers’ environment based on some issues raised by Axel Honneth, current Critical Theory’s exponent, such as the experience of disrespect, moral feelings of indignation, and his articulation in search for solutions to configure or not a struggle for recognition. We attest the analytical potential of the Honnethian premises in guiding empirical investigations which may lead to the review of the production relationship as a space to experience the claim for its humanization within advanced capitalism, in which the tendency to individualistic and conformist solutions prevail as they are triggered by the concurrent work precariousness.

Keywords

• Offshore Work. Workers. Work–Social Aspects. Struggle for Recognition. Campos Basin.