‘This timely and engaging contribution extends the metaphor approach, which has been used to great effect in economics, law and organizational theory, to the study of professional occupations. The results are extremely insightful as this book, through the visual power of metaphors, casts new light on a series of key debates within the sociology of the professions.’ - Daniel Muzio, Professor Professions and Organization, University of Newcastle, UK

‘Liljegren and Saks are to be congratulated in bringing together a fine edited collection of new and published pieces on the role of metaphors in understanding professions. This novel focus should appeal to those interested in the professions generally and in particular professions such as medicine, education and social work.’ - Professor Jonathan Gabe, Royal Holloway, University of London, UK

Professions and Metaphors: Understanding Professions in Society explores the way that two traditions have contributed to our understanding of both theory and society over recent decades. In the first tradition, the growing literature on metaphors has helped to guide thinking, providing insights into such phenomena as the study of organizations. In the second, there has been an increased interest in professions, from lawyers and university academics to doctors and social workers.

This edited collection brings together these two traditions for the first time, providing a unique and systematic overview, at macro and micro level, of the use of metaphors in the sociology of professions. A range of professional fields are explored, from law and medicine to social work and teaching, showing how metaphors can enhance our understanding of the operation of professional groups.

By demonstrating how metaphors can add to our understanding of professions in society, as well as in professional practice, this ground-breaking book makes an invaluable contribution to advanced students and researchers in fields such as the sociology of professions and work and organization – as well as informing professionals and policy makers themselves.