The British Malaise: Industrial Performance Education and Training in Britain Today

This series of edited papers examines Britains industrial and commercial performance in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, arguing that the British Malaise is a disease of industrial dyslexia.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 19 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive series of edited papers, originally published in 1982, delves into the intricate relationship between Britain's industrial and commercial performance in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and the evolution of state education. It offers a detailed examination of the performance of specific key nineteenth-century manufacturing industries, shedding light on the factors that contributed to their relative decline in the face of fierce foreign competition. Furthermore, the title delves into the present and future of British industry, arguing that the British Malaise, a pervasive sense of malaise and dissatisfaction, can be attributed to industrial dyslexia—the inability to effectively address the complex industrial challenges of the real world by aligning variable industrial objectives and performance.

The series of edited papers begins by providing a historical overview of Britain's industrial development, highlighting the key milestones and challenges that shaped its trajectory. It explores the rise of industrial capitalism, the emergence of powerful industrial corporations, and the technological advancements that drove economic growth. However, the papers also acknowledge the darker side of industrialization, including the exploitation of workers, the environmental degradation, and the social inequalities that emerged as a result.

In the subsequent chapters, the series delves into the performance of specific manufacturing industries in the nineteenth century. It examines the rise and fall of industries such as textiles, coal, steel, and transportation, analyzing the factors that contributed to their success or failure. The papers highlight the impact of foreign competition, technological advancements, and government policies on these industries, and assess the strategies employed by companies to adapt and survive in a rapidly changing economic landscape.

One of the key themes of the series is the impact of education on industrial development. The papers argue that a well-educated workforce is essential for the success of any industry, and that the development of state education in Britain played a crucial role in shaping the country's industrial capabilities. However, the papers also note that the education system was not without its flaws, and that certain industries were left behind due to a lack of investment in education and training.

The series also explores the future of British industry, contending that the country faces significant challenges in the years to come. It highlights the need for innovation, investment, and diversification to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry. The papers discuss the role of government policies, the impact of global trade, and the challenges posed by emerging technologies such as automation and artificial intelligence.

Overall, this series of edited papers provides a rich and insightful examination of Britain's industrial and commercial performance in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It offers valuable insights into the factors that shaped the country's industrial development, the challenges it faced, and the strategies employed by companies and governments to navigate a rapidly changing economic landscape. The series is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between industry, education, and society.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032274737