A History of Work in Britain, 1880-1950

by Arthur McIvor

Overview

This book draws upon the existing body of literature and incorporates substantial new research to provide an interpretative overview of the social history of work in Britain from the late-Victorian period to 1950. Different theoretical frameworks are analysed and the historiography reviewed. McIvor explores the changing nature of work over 1880-1950, focusing upon the occupational profile, work conditions, the labour process, inequalities and discrimination in employment and work culture. Industrial relations and the politics of work are evaluated, and the final section probes the interaction between employment and health. This is a valuable introduction to the history of a crucial element in all our lives.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780333596173
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	11/08/2000
Series:	Social History in Perspective , #3
Edition description:	2000
Pages:	276
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.61(d)

About the Author

ARTHUR MCIVOR is Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Strathclyde.
ARTHUR MCIVOR is Senior Lecturer in History at the University of Strathclyde.

Table of Contents

List of Tables
Acknowledgements
Introduction
The Historiography and Theorising of Work
The Changing Labour Force
The Experience of Work: Deskilling, Intensification and Alienation?
Exercising Control: Employers and the Management of Labour
Work Conditions, Occupation and Health
Regulating Work: The Role of the State
Women, Gender Relations and Inequalities at Work
Trade Unions, Work and Politics
Conclusion: Labour Transformed?
Bibliography
Index.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

McIvor documents patterns of continuity and change at work that, whilst familiar, are presented with theoretical observation in an accessible, clear format under one cover. He has produced an invaluable source for students of labour history.' - Michael Richardson, University of the West of England, Work, employment and society - Journal of The British Sociological Association

'...well informed, clearly written, logically organised and as alert to differences and discontinuities as it is to similarities and continuities.' - John Benson, University of Wolverhampton, Scottish Economic & Social History

'A well structured and well written book which will undoubtedly encourage a varied discussion with regard to the issues raised.' - Raymond Pate, Southport College

Editorial Reviews

The Victorian era and subsequent decades saw enormous changes in the workplace as industry became increasingly specialized and production intensified. McIvor (history, U. of Strathclyde, UK) explores the social cost of these changes as he describes people's experience of work, developments in management and its theory, the effect of work conditions on health, the role of the state, women and gender relations, and trade unions. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews