What`s Left of the World - Education, Identity and the Post-Work Political Imagination

The Fordist system of treating people as cogs in a machine created unhappiness in young people and American society, while neoliberalism has pushed them into a collective identity crisis. Americans no longer feel needed to do jobs that had previously anchored them in society and are becoming disconnected and purposeless due to the proliferation of new identities based on consumption.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2019
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing

In the 1960s, Paul Goodman made a powerful argument that the Fordist system, which viewed individuals as mere cogs in a machine, had caused profound unhappiness among young people and in American society as a whole. Over five decades later, professor David Blacker has acknowledged that decades of neoliberalism have pushed young people beyond mere unhappiness and into a collective identity crisis.

The impact of neoliberalism on American society is undeniable. Americans no longer feel a sense of necessity to engage in jobs that once defined their place in society, leading to a sense of disconnection and purposelessness. The proliferation of new identities, primarily based on consumption rather than work, is a clear symptom of neoliberalism's hyper-commodification and deregulation of everyday life.

This shift has had far-reaching consequences. Young people are increasingly questioning their place in the world and seeking alternatives to the traditional career path. They are seeking meaning and fulfillment in their lives, rather than simply pursuing economic success. This has led to a rise in alternative forms of education, such as vocational training and apprenticeships, as well as a greater emphasis on creativity, self-expression, and personal growth.

However, this search for meaning and identity has also created challenges. Many young people feel overwhelmed by the choices they have and struggle to find a sense of direction. They are bombarded with information and distractions, making it difficult to focus on their goals and aspirations. Additionally, the pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations can be intense, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation.

Despite these challenges, there is hope for a brighter future. Young people are becoming more aware of the negative effects of neoliberalism and are actively seeking to create change. They are organizing protests, advocating for social justice, and starting their own businesses to create a more sustainable and equitable society.

In conclusion, the impact of neoliberalism on American society has been profound. Young people have been particularly affected, facing a collective identity crisis and a sense of disconnection and purposelessness. However, there is hope for a brighter future as young people become more aware of the challenges they face and take action to create a more sustainable and equitable society.

Weight: 324g
Dimension: 160 x 225 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789040104