Chapter 18 Economy and Work
Chapter Outline Economy and Society The Changing Global Economy Theoretical Perspectives on Work Characteristics of the Labor Force Diversity in the American Occupational System Worker Safety
The Industrial Revolution Brought far-reaching social changes including: The separation of work and family Transformation of the consumption of energy Specialization Cash-based economy
Economic Systems Capitalism - based on market competition, private property and pursuit of profit. Socialism - the means of production are the property of the state. Communism - state is the sole owner of the systems of production.
Functionalist Perspective on Work Defines WorkAs functional for society because work teaches people the values of society and integrates people within the social order Views Work Organizations As functionally integrated with other social institutions Interprets Changing Work Systems As an adaptation to social change Explains Wage Inequality As motivating people to work harder
Conflict Perspective on Work Defines WorkAs generating class conflict because of the unequal rewards associated with different jobs Views Work Organizations As producing alienation, especially among those who perform repetitive tasks Interprets Changing Work Systems As based in tensions arising from power differences between different class, race, and gender groups Explains Wage Inequality As reflecting the devaluation of different classes of workers
Symbolic Interactionist Perspective on Work Defines WorkAs organizing social bonds between people who interact within work settings Views Work Organizations As interactive systems within which people form relationships and create beliefs that define their relationships to others Interprets Changing Work Systems As the result of the changing meanings of work resulting from changed social conditions Explains Wage Inequality As producing different perceptions of the value of different occupations
A Diverse Workplace Majority of workers are White women and people of color. As the “Baby Boomers” pass through middle age, the labor market will see an increase in the number of older people. The better jobs now require education and training.
A Diverse Workplace Manufacturing industries, where racial minorities have historically been able to get jobs, are in decline. New technologies, corporate layoffs, underemployment, and the decline in real income are all features of today’s experience in the workplace.
Categories of Workers Managerial and professional Technical, sales and administrative support Service occupations Precision production, craft and repair Operators, fabricators, and laborers Farming, forestry and fishing
Sexual Harassment Two primary forms are recognized in the law: Quid pro quo - forces sexual compliance in exchange for an employment or educational benefit. Hostile working environment - unwanted sexual behaviors are a condition of work.
Immigration and the Labor Market High rate of immigration is transforming the labor market Some groups form areas of ethnically owned businesses that serve ethnic communities.
Worker Satisfaction and Safety Greater worker satisfaction is associated with work that is: Rewarding and challenging Provides for advancement Makes workers feel responsible for their achievements.