Sociology, Work and Organisations

This accessible edited collection provides global context for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying the sociology of work and organisations. Composed of short, example-led chapters, this book covers a wide range of contemporary topics, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the digitalisation of work, the gig economy, and the shifting roles of women and other marginalised groups.

The book?s innovative approach uses case studies as diverse as work-life balance in China, gender pay inequity in Britain and Germany, and the exploitation of workers on the Mexico-US border, to incorporate perspectives from both the Global North and South and provide students with the tools to analyse new developments in the rapidly changing world of work. The book is particularly concerned with inequalities and marginalisation in the workplace, discussing discrimination against women, ethnic minorities, migrants, and older workers. The book also explores how increasing digitalisation, the rise of the gig economy and the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted upon working practices and how this relates to precarious employment. Other chapters are dedicated to issues of workplace organisation, including female leadership, work-life balance, and well-being. The book goes on to explore how climate change and policies such as Universal Basic Income may shape the future of work in the near future.

Each chapter also includes useful pedagogical resources including practice exam questions, key concepts and definitions, and further readings. The book will be therefore essential reading for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying the sociology of work, business management, and organisation.

?This welcome text offers many insights into recent changes in work and employment. Its approach is global and local, using case studies to great effect to illustrate key arguments.  Its focus on developments that have so far received little attention will be invaluable for both students and specialists.?

Miriam Glucksmann, Emeritus Professor of Sociology, Essex University, UK and Visiting Professor of Sociology, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK

?An ambitious new collection, exploring core concepts in the sociology of work with a critical eye and lively, contemporary examples. Wide-reaching, thought-provoking, and accessible, with clear summaries and practice questions for students. This book will become core reading for all those interested in the changing world of work.?

Susan Halford, Professor of Sociology and Co-Director of ESRC Centre for Sociodigital Futures, University of Bristol, UK

?This book is essential reading for all those interested in the sociology of work. Taking an international perspective, it provides fascinating case studies from across the globe that offer new, rich insights on work and organisations in the 21st century.?

Diane Reay, Professor of Education, University of Cambridge, UK