Critical perspectives on individual differences

The study of individual differences constitutes a significant area in work and organizational (W-O) psychology since the beginning of the twentieth century. Advances in identifying and measuring individual differences reflected early W-O psychologists’ wish to provide managers and organizations with a scientific approach for correcting, conducting and training the workforce and the military. Following the historical foundation of the paradigm of individual differences, the present chapter refers to Marx and Foucault to offer a critique of the normative, functionalist, prescriptive and unreflective approach to individual differences in W-O psychology. The study of individual differences has been instrumental in reifying and objectifying humans and their thinking, feelings and actions, which are often abstracted from the socio-political context. Moreover, this area of study has shared the interests of Social Darwinism and eugenics, which provided the frameworks for “scientific racism” against those diverging from a man-made standard. Rather than suggesting ethical principles to improve the study of individual differences and employee selection, this chapter offers a historical detour and sets some ideas for future stances in W-O psychology research.