Fostering virtue among autorickshaw drivers in Sri Lanka: a case study of an urban sharing institution

PhD thesis


Jensen, C. 2024. Fostering virtue among autorickshaw drivers in Sri Lanka: a case study of an urban sharing institution. PhD thesis Middlesex University / Oxford Centre for Mission Studies (OCMS) School of Law
TypePhD thesis
TitleFostering virtue among autorickshaw drivers in Sri Lanka: a case study of an urban sharing institution
AuthorsJensen, C.
Abstract

This study, using the theories of MacIntyrean Virtue Ethics, Institutional Theory and Algorithmic Management, explores the MacIntyrean Virtues-Goods-Practice-Institution Framework and Institutional Work strategies in a non-western context among autorickshaw drivers transiting to roles in a prominent ride-sharing app company in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This research builds on the empirical studies conducted by Moore (2012), Fernando and Moore (2015), and Chu and Moore (2020) with the application of Virtue Ethics based on a conceptual framework drawn from MacIntyre’s work. Hitherto, no serious research project has engaged autorickshaw drivers regarding professional conduct and ethical practices to learn how institutions can effectively and meaningfully foster ethical practice. The aim of this research was to discover how institutions can effectively encourage and sustain virtuous conduct using Virtue Ethics and Institutional Theory. Based on case study research conducted in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the findings support the use of the MacIntyrean Framework not only in non-western contexts, but among loosely organized network institutions. This research also uncovered novel Institutional Work strategies (notably, frequent performance reflection and ethics training being the most effective) and virtues (acquiescence, moderation and self-care being discovered) as well as confirming the ethical dilemmas inherent in subordinating managerial functions to the application’s algorithm. This case analysis builds on empirical data from previous case studies, field observations and 25 interviews with management, founders, and rank-and-file autorickshaw drivers who are a part of the ride-sharing institution PickMe.

Sustainable Development Goals9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Middlesex University ThemeCreativity, Culture & Enterprise
Department nameSchool of Law
Business and Law
Institution nameMiddlesex University / Oxford Centre for Mission Studies (OCMS)
Collaborating institutionOxford Centre for Mission Studies (OCMS)
PublisherMiddlesex University Research Repository
Publication dates
Online29 Aug 2024
Publication process dates
Accepted24 Jun 2024
Deposited29 Aug 2024
Output statusPublished
Accepted author manuscript
File Access Level
Open
LanguageEnglish
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CMJensen thesis.pdf
File access level: Open

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