Sociology
The Role of Boundary Work in Maintaining Professional Jurisdiction
Quick fact
In the United States, the battle over who can perform tasks as varied as selling insurance, practicing law, or styling hair is decided through 'boundary work'—the everyday actions and arguments that define who is 'in' and who is 'out' of a profession.
Why this is interesting
Doctors and lawyers repeatedly emphasize their unique training and exclusive skills. But what keeps them in charge of their domains, and not just anyone who claims to help?