Word Processing and the Transformation of the Patriarchal Relations of Control in the Office

This paper was initially written in December 1978 for discussion with the CSE Microelectronics Group. It has been expanded and re-written in the light of subsequent discussions and comments from many individuals, and especially the CSE Microelectronics Group and the Capital and Class editorial group. We would like to thank the CSE Microelectronics Group for providing the original impetus for this paper and encouragement to publish it. We are also indebted to both the CSE and the London Micro-electronics Group for the wide ranging discussion on research and informa-tion presented by other people which has helped in our understanding of what we see as one of the crucual political problems facing the working class today. The word processor is making an impact on offices all over the country in both the public and the private sectors. The introduction of microelectronically controlled word processors constitutes the first major attempt at office rationalisation since the introduction of the typewriter in the 1870s. This paper seeks to chart the shift in office organisation by taking a historical look at the entry of women into the office, the culture of the office and, finally examining the rationale behind the introduction of word processors and their potential impact.