Please join us for a seminar by Patrik Aspers, Professor of Sociology and Chair of the Department of Sociology at the University of St. Gallen.
Abstract:
Many challenges faced by individuals and organizations center around questions of value. For example, how much is my old car worth? What is the value of my university degree? Which research statement is most accurate? Who is considered the most beautiful fashion model? Who is the most valuable NHL player? These questions are inherently complex due to the absence of a universal standard for measuring value.
To address these uncertainties of value, this talk goes beyond the uncertainty framework proposed by Frank Knight, examining various forms for managing such uncertainties. Some of these forms are economic and can be addressed through market mechanisms, while others, though not strictly economic, are highly relevant—such as rankings, ratings, and contests. The talk will demonstrate how these forms help reduce uncertainty and how they emerge, either through mutual adjustments among participants or through organizational decisions made for others.
Link to the book (open access published 2024):
Uncertainty - Patrik Aspers - Oxford University Press (oup.com)
Link to Aspers homepage:
Prof. Ph.D. Patrik Aspers - University of St.Gallen | unisg.ch
Link to Google Scholar:
Patrik Aspers - Google Scholar