Work in America [2 volumes]

Book excerpt: The first comprehensive analysis of work and the workforce in the United States, from the Industrial Revolution to the era of globalization. This comprehensive two-volume reference book is the first to analyze the central role of work and the workforce in U.S. life from the Industrial Revolution through today's information economy. Drawing on a variety of disciplines—economics, public policy, law, human and civil rights, cultural studies, and organizational psychology—its 256 entries examine key events, concepts, institutions, and individuals in labor history. Entries also tackle tough contemporary questions that reflect the conflicts inherent in capitalism. What is the impact of work on families and communities? On minority and immigrant populations? How shall we respond to changing work roles and the growing influence of the transnational corporation? Work in America describes and evaluates attempts to address social and class issues—affirmative action, occupational health and safety, corporate management science, and trade unionism and organized labor—and offers the kind of comprehensive understanding needed to discover workable solutions.