How We Struggle: A Political Anthropology of Labour

How We Struggle is a book that provides a unique anthropological perspective on labor agency, taking in examples from across the globe, from heavy industry and agriculture to the service and informal sectors. It combines global political economy and Marxist feminist theories of labor with ethnographic approaches that begin from a perspective of human experience, kinship, and radical heterogeneity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2023
Publisher: Pluto Press

A truly remarkable book, one that elevates anthropology to a level of significance and relevance, is "How We Struggle." Authored by Andrea Muehlebach, a renowned Professor of Anthropology at the University of Bremen, this resource is a treasure trove of insights that make the field of anthropology truly come alive.

In the realm of labor movements, the focus has traditionally been on unionized industrial workers occupying the factory floor. However, the reality is far more complex, encompassing a wide range of workplaces, sectors, and geographical contexts. The question of how working people navigate the challenges of their daily lives remains a multifaceted puzzle, with no single definitive answer.

Enter Sian Lazar, a distinguished anthropologist who offers a unique perspective on labor agency. Through her comprehensive analysis, Lazar explores the struggles of workers across the globe, spanning from heavy industry and agriculture to the service and informal sectors. She delves into the core question: how do individuals strive to enhance their lives and working conditions? What factors limit and enable their pursuit of improvement?

To answer these profound inquiries, "How We Struggle" employs a diverse range of approaches. It seamlessly integrates a discussion of global political economy and Marxist feminist theories of labor with ethnographic methodologies that begin from a humanistic perspective, emphasizing kinship, experience, and radical heterogeneity. This fusion of theoretical frameworks and empirical insights creates a rich tapestry of understanding.

Within the pages of this remarkable book, readers are taken on a journey that traverses the spectrum of worker action. From organized trade unionism to individualised strategies of accommodation, resistance, and escape, Lazar uncovers the diverse ways in which workers navigate the complexities of their workplaces. She sheds light on the power dynamics, social structures, and cultural factors that shape their experiences and struggles.

One of the book's most compelling aspects is its ability to humanize the labor experience. Lazar weaves together personal narratives and ethnographic observations, allowing readers to empathize with the individuals behind the struggles. She paints a vivid picture of the challenges workers face, from long hours, low wages, and hazardous working conditions to discrimination, harassment, and social exclusion. Through these narratives, "How We Struggle" fosters a deeper understanding of the human cost of labor and the urgent need for social and economic change.

Moreover, the book offers valuable insights into the broader political and social contexts that shape worker struggles. Lazar explores the interplay between global economic systems, labor markets, and power relations, highlighting the ways in which capital, corporations, and governments exert influence over workers' lives. She sheds light on the historical legacies, social movements, and cultural transformations that have shaped the nature of labor and contributed to the ongoing challenges workers face.

"How We Struggle" is a testament to the power of anthropology in unraveling the complexities of human experiences. It demonstrates the value of interdisciplinary approaches, combining theoretical frameworks with empirical research to shed light on the lived realities of workers. This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of labor and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

In conclusion, "How We Struggle" is a masterful book that makes anthropology matter. Through its comprehensive analysis, it elevates the field of anthropology to a level of significance and relevance, providing a rich tapestry of insights that shed light on the struggles of working people across the globe. This book is a must-read for scholars, activists, and anyone seeking to understand the human condition and the urgent need for social and economic change.

Weight: 328g
Dimension: 216 x 139 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745347516