ABSTRACT

The welfare state can be seen as a local 'embodying agent' in Norwegian working life through the introduction of the parental leave system for fathers. Work organizations differ depending on what part of working life they belong to, and also on the structure and culture in the particular organization. Organizations also vary according to the national contexts they are part of. This chapter discusses the processes of embodying Norwegian male employees as fathers through the introduction of a parental leave system that is based on giving fathers a special right, the 'father's quota'. It focuses on the time use of fathers who are members of work organizations belonging to the Norwegian knowledge industry. The chapter also discusses the parental leave system that is based on giving fathers a special right, 'the father's quota' and the masculinity practices in work organizations with flexible time cultures.