Fleming and Spicer argue that, by itself, cynicism can actually represent a very conservative force:… cynical employees are given (and give themselves) the impression that they are autonomous agents, but they still practice the corporate rituals nevertheless. When we dis-identify with our prescribed social roles we often still perform them –sometimes better, ironically, than if we did identify with them. (Fleming and Spicer, 2003: 160, emphasis in original)Cynicism is a form of rebellion that often leaves the foundations of power intact. Much like the ‘culture of fun’ management styles mentioned earlier in this book, cynicism can accommodate workers to their subordinate position by allowing them to enjoy a modicum of superficial freedom. Fleming and Spicer give the memorable example of...