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Speaking the Language of the Bottom-Line: The Metaphor of "Managing Diversity"

Creighton University

Lynn M. Harter

Ohio University

This study explores the metaphor of managing diversity and its related discourses that dominate current business communication about the changing workforce. We examine the language employed in practitioner- oriented texts and consultant websites on diversity. We first illustrate the characteristics of the managerial metaphor, including the emphasis on achieving competitive advantage and a "quick-fix" orientation toward improving managerial competencies regarding diversity. We then analyze the implications of the managerial metaphor in terms of (a) whose interests are emphasized by the metaphor, (b) whose inter ests are (potentially) marginalized by the metaphor, (c) how the metaphor system relates to power and economic interests, (d) how dif ferent metaphors present alternative positions, and (e) implications for business communication. We contend that language that constitutes individuals as resources emphasizes managerial and economic interests and potentially marginalizes human and ethical aspects of diversity.

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