Les mécaniciens de rue entre précarité et autoréalisation

Assujettissement aux incertitudes et subjectivation en tant que professionnel

Abstract

This article explores the tensions that emerge between precarity as a form of subjugation to the conditions of social and economic uncertainty and precarity as a field within which we can find particular modalities of subjectivation. My focus is on street mechanics: people who fix cars without a licence to do so. This social group faces a high level of precarity and a number of difficulties, whilst at the same being able to build a reputation as professionals in their field. This process contributes to the scaffolding of their identity and influences their role of social actors in the neighborhoods they inhabit. However, their practice and their creativity does not permit them to overcome the uncertain conditions of their life and work.