Assistant professor of sociology Stephen Sweet's and Cleveland State University sociology professor Peter Meiksins' book, The Changing Contours of Work: Jobs and Opportunities in the New Economy, has been accepted for publication in the "Sociology for a New Century" series of Pine Forge Press.
The book examines the remarkable transformations witnessed in the later part of the 20th century, including the emergence of new organizational designs, new technologies, new markets, new workers, and the globalization of production. It documents the effects that these and other changes have had on workers' lives -- on and off the job -- and the ability to make ends meet. As workers struggle to make a living, they do so in an economy built more and more on risk and overwork.
Using an historical lens, this book reconsiders the notion of a "new economy," revealing not just the important changes that have transpired, but also certain practices developed in the old economy which still endure.
By framing the development of jobs and opportunity in an international comparative perspective, Sweet and Meiksins show the roads taken, those not taken, and the impact these choices have had on the opportunity structure in American society. Their analysis reveals various opportunity chasms, and the continued importance of class, gender, race, and nationality in shaping life chances.
The recommendations offered in this book -- of value to consumers, activist groups, employers, and governments -- offer guidance on strategies to make the new economy work for all.
