International comparison is a paradoxical practice. It requires the comparison of the incomparable. This article draws from certain approaches to translatology in order to assimilate international comparison with bricolage. From a pragmatic viewpoint, we can distinguish four comparison strategies: institutionalism, culturalism, medium-range formalization and indicator policies. To illustrate these strategies the article draws on empirical material collected in the field of work and employment.
International comparisons; Work; Employment; Connotations; Epistemology