Industrial Labor on the Margins of Capitalism: Precarity, Class, and the Neoliberal Subject

Industrial Labor on the Margins of Capitalism explores the increasing casualization of workforces and the weakening power of organized labor, questioning the claim that neoliberal ideology has become the new 'commonsense of our times' and suggesting alternatives to employment regimes based on flexible labor.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Industrial Labor on the Margins of Capitalism is a groundbreaking collection of ethnographic case studies that delves into the pervasive trend of casualization of workforces and the diminishing influence of organized labor across diverse regions of the world. This profound divide is largely attributed to state policies and is intricately woven into local interpretations of class dynamics. Through a comprehensive exploration of this interconnection, these essays challenge the notion that neoliberal ideology has emerged as the prevailing "commonsense of our times" and present a range of insightful propositions regarding the factors that shape employment regimes characterized by flexible labor.

The book's opening chapter sets the stage by providing a comprehensive overview of the global landscape, highlighting the prevalence of informal employment and the erosion of worker protections. It underscores the profound impact of these developments on individuals, communities, and societies, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms and dynamics that shape labor markets.

Subsequent chapters delve into the ethnographic case studies, each offering a unique perspective on the experiences of workers in different industries and regions. These studies shed light on the complex interplay between state policies, corporate practices, and local cultural norms, revealing the ways in which they shape the nature and dynamics of work. The authors employ a rich mix of qualitative and quantitative methods, including participant observation, interviews, and statistical analysis, to capture the nuances and complexities of the labor market.

One of the key themes that emerge from the case studies is the increasing prevalence of temporary and contract work, which often lacks the stability and benefits associated with traditional full-time employment. The authors argue that this shift is driven by a range of factors, including globalization, technological advancements, and the changing nature of work itself. However, they also point out the negative consequences of casualization, including reduced job security, lower wages, and limited access to benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Another important theme is the power dynamics between workers and employers, particularly in the context of labor markets that are characterized by high levels of inequality and exploitation. The authors explore the ways in which workers are subjected to coercion, discrimination, and exploitation, highlighting the need for stronger protections and rights for workers. They also suggest that organized labor plays a crucial role in advocating for workers' rights and promoting fair labor practices.

The book also examines the role of state policies in shaping labor markets and the conditions that create employment regimes based on flexible labor. The authors argue that state interventions, such as labor laws, social welfare programs, and trade policies, can either promote or hinder the development of flexible labor markets. They provide examples of successful and unsuccessful state policies in different regions, highlighting the importance of policymakers' understanding of the local context and the needs of workers.

In conclusion, Industrial Labor on the Margins of Capitalism is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the trends and dynamics shaping labor markets around the world. Through its ethnographic case studies and analytical framework, the book challenges the prevailing narratives about neoliberal ideology and offers valuable insights into the conditions that create employment regimes based on flexible labor. This book will be of interest to scholars, researchers, policymakers, and activists alike, as it contributes to our understanding of the complex and interconnected nature of labor markets and the urgent need for transformative policies and practices.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800731998