The Legal Concept of Work

The Legal Concept of Work by Zoe Adams explores the legal construction and regulation of work, examining why some forms of human labor are considered work and others are not. It also looks at how perceptions of these activities can change over time and how legal constitution impacts the regulation, organization, and valuation of work. The book presents case studies from various industries to illustrate the regulatory challenges different types of work face in the context of capitalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Why do we perceive certain practices as work and others as not? Why do we categorize certain capacities as economically valuable skills and others as innate characteristics? Moreover, what is the role of law in shaping our answers to these questions? These are just a few of the inquiries explored by Zoe Adams' insightful analysis of the legal construction and regulation of work. Spanning from the 14th century to the present day, The Legal Concept of Work delves into how the role of law and legal concepts come to regard some forms of human labor as work and others as non-work. It examines why perceptions of these activities can change over time and how legal constitutions impact the way in which work is regulated, organized, and valued. As part of the analysis, the book presents a series of case studies, ranging from the publishing industry, academia, medicine, and retail, with the aim of illustrating some of the regulatory challenges different types of work face in the context of capitalism.

The concept of work has evolved over centuries, shaped by social, economic, and legal factors. In the past, certain practices, such as domestic work or unpaid labor, were often not considered work due to their informal nature or lack of economic value. However, as society has changed, these practices have come to be recognized as forms of work, often due to the advocacy of feminist movements and the recognition of the contributions of women to the workforce.

Similarly, the classification of certain capacities as economically valuable skills and others as innate characteristics has also been a subject of debate. For example, in the past, certain skills, such as manual labor or artistic talent, were considered innate and not amenable to training or development. However, with the rise to prominence of education and training programs, these skills have become increasingly valued in the labor market and are now recognized as economically valuable.

The role of law in shaping our answers to these questions is significant. Laws and legal frameworks provide the framework for defining what constitutes work and what rights and protections are associated with it. They also set the standards for labor practices, such as minimum wage laws, overtime pay, and worker safety regulations. These laws can have a significant impact on the way, on the way

The legal construction and regulation of work have profound implications for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. They shape the way in which work is organized, valued, and rewarded, and can have a significant impact on economic inequality, social mobility, and overall well-being. For example, laws that define and protect the rights of workers, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act in the United States, can help to ensure that workers are paid fairly and receive safe and healthy working conditions.

However, the legal construction and regulation of work can also have unintended consequences. For example, laws that prioritize economic growth and productivity may inadvertently lead to the exploitation of workers or the devaluing of certain types of work. Similarly, laws that prioritize worker safety may create barriers to entry for certain individuals or groups, such as those with disabilities or limited education.

In conclusion, the legal construction and regulation of work are complex and multifaceted issues that require careful consideration. They are shaped by a range of social, economic, and legal factors, and have significant implications for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. By understanding the historical and contemporary context of work, we can better appreciate the challenges and opportunities that arise in this evolving field.

Weight: 782g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192857774