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A working nation: workers, work, and government in the new economy

The nature of work in the United States of America is undergoing dramatic change in response to the use of new technologies, a global economy, and a more competitive marketplace. While the growing economy has generated a vast number of new employment opportunities, it has also resulted in a significantly unbalanced system of rewards that leaves less-skilled, and many middle-class, workers at a disadvantage. This monograph examines the changing economic situation and possible policy responses from the differing perspectives of the workers, the relationship between workers and employers, and government policy. The chapters are: 'Winners and losers in America: taking the measure of the new economic realities' by David T. Ellwood which investigates and explains the contradiction between the steady rise in per capita national income and the static wages of middle- and working-class workers; 'The new employee-employer relationship' by Douglas Kruse and Joseph Blasi studies relative changes in long-term work in comparison with temporary work, and evaluates the introduction of profit-sharing schemes and 'high performance workplace' programs; 'Creating good jobs and good wages' by William A. Niskanen and Rebecca M. Blank offers two alternative approaches government might take to facilitate the participation of all American citizens in the 'working nation'. Both authors conclude that policy should focus on skill development for the low-skilled rather than on inequality by itself, and on childhood education and tax supports for low-income working families.

The nature of work in the United States of America is undergoing dramatic change in response to the use of new technologies, ...  Show Full Abstract  

Authors: Ellwood, David T.; Blank, Rebecca M.; Blasi, Joseph;
Date: 2000
Geographic subjects: North America; United States
Resource type: Book
Subjects: Disadvantaged; Skills and knowledge; Income;

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