Search results

A range of issues - social, moral, political and economic - that are central to the discussion of the future of work are outlined. Three interrelated strands are highlighted. The first is the introduction of new technology, especially in communications and information processing. The second is the changing composition of the labour force, with male participation rates falling and female participation growing. The third is the liberalisation or deregulation of markets resulting in greater intensity of competition both within the country and internationally. The authors argue that there are new ways in which forms of employment can, and should, be generated. They are critical of the decline in employment protection and the consequent rise in levels of job insecurity. This is seen as having a damaging impact on families and relationships. The paper is written from a Christian point of view. The Council of Churches for Britain and Ireland originally published the chapter in 1997 as part of a report entitled 'Unemployment and the future of work'.