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.

Auteur
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.

Contenu
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