The Story of Work: A New History of Humankind

The first global history of work, from the age of hunter-gatherers to the present, traces a perennial cycle of injustice and resistance and the desire for more. Jan Lucassen's book explores how humanity organizes work in the household, tribe, city, and state, examining how labor is split between men, women, and children, the invention of money, collective action, and the impact of migration, slavery, and leisure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

The first truly global history of work, an upbeat assessment from the age of the hunter-gatherer to the present day, is presented in this comprehensive and engaging book. Beginning in the hunting-and-gathering past, the author traces the evolution of work over millennia, highlighting how little has changed despite the significant advancements in technology, society, and economy.

The book progresses through the rise of cities, wages, and markets for labor, exploring the perennial cycle of injustice and resistance that has accompanied these developments. It sheds light on the age-old desire for more, as humans strive to improve their lives and achieve greater prosperity.

Throughout the book, the author provides an inclusive history of humanity's busy labor, spanning China, India, Africa, the Americas, and Europe. He examines how work is organized in different contexts, including the household, tribe, city, and state. He also explores the division of labor between men, women, and children, the watershed moment of the invention of money, the collective action of workers, and the impact of migration, slavery, and the idea of leisure on work.

The author's surprising account of both cooperation and subordination at work throws essential light on the opportunities and challenges we face today. From peasant farmers in the first agrarian societies to the precarious existence of gig workers in the modern economy, the book offers a comprehensive analysis of the various forms of work and their impact on individuals, communities, and societies.

This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in history, sociology, economics, or social justice. It provides a fresh perspective on the evolution of work and its significance in shaping our world, and it challenges us to think critically about the ways in which work is organized and the rights and responsibilities of workers and employers.

In conclusion, "The First Truly Global History of Work" is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the past, present, and future of work. It is a lively and informative book that offers valuable insights into the complex and ever-changing world of labor.

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300267068