Exposing Enron: Media representations of ritualized deviance in corporate culture

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2006

Abstract

This article argues that rituals are an important part of corporate culture. However, they can involve deviance. Employing multiple media sources, this study identifies symbolic themes expressed through daily work rituals at Enron's corporate headquarters. The themes involve risk, gratification, pride, and fantasy imagery. Utilizing structural ritualization theory, this article suggests that ritualized symbolic practices expressing these themes extensively influenced Enron employees. They shaped their cognitions, patterns of behavior, and social interaction. They also led to the normalization and reproduction of deviance. The findings of this study contribute to research on organizational deviance and structural ritualization. © 2006 SAGE Publications.

DOI

10.1177/1741659006065405

First Page

177

Last Page

195

Volume

2

Issue

2

Publication Title

Crime, Media, Culture

ISSN

17416590

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