Sociological Perspectives on Labor Markets

This book presents conceptual tools and theoretical perspectives that can be used to sociologically analyze labour markets in modern capitalist societies. It makes use of the rich heritage of sociological thinking and draws on the classical work of Marx, Weber and Durkheim as well as structural-functionalist contributions. Contemporary sociological thinking is criticized for its tendency to exaggerate change in labour markets while the need to consider continuity is emphasized. Conceptual tools and perspectives are applied based on concrete phenomena, as the author combines abstract theoretical reasoning with theoretically founded reflections on actual labour market developments.

'This is an important book, indicating a variety of ways in which sociological thinking can be deployed to inform a more detailed understanding of developments in contemporary work, employment and society. - Work, employment and society

'Given its very accessible and clear style, the book deserves to have a place on a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate course reading lists. Given its comprehensiveness and the quality of his judgments, it ought to be on most professors' bookshelves, too.' - John MacInnes, Acta Sociologica

Autorentext
BENGT FURÅKER is Professor of Sociology at Göteborg University, Sweden. He has previously held positions at two other Swedish universities and was a Visiting Fellow at Yale University, USA. His research is mainly focused on labour market issues and the relationship between the labour market and the welfare state.

Inhalt
Introduction Some Concepts to Start with Labour Market Divisions Actors and Interactions The Commodity Status of Labour Power Age of Services, Information, and Globalization The Individual-Collective Aspect of Employment Relationships Labour Market Flexibility Unemployment, Marginalization, and Employment Prospects Labour Market Continuity and Change