Globalisation & Worklessness
Sociology: AQA A Level, topic 6.3.5
Globalisation and ‘Worklessness’
Some argue that globalisation has also increased unemployment and the potential to be workless.
Worklessness
- ‘Worklessness’ is a new term that is beginning to be used more frequently.
- Worklessness is not the same as unemployment, even though there are several different definitions of worklessness.
- ‘Worklessness’ is not only about unemployment; there are far greater numbers of people who are workless than unemployed.
Unemployment
- To be officially classed as unemployed, people need to be actively looking for work and available to start work, but there are people who are out of work yet do not fall into the narrow category of being ‘unemployed’.
Workless people
- Workless people might be caring for children or family members and would be included in the wider definition of worklessness but would not be included in the unemployment figures even if they are looking for work.
Worklessness and employment
- Employers within a globalised economy have no need to be flexible towards employees with additional caring responsibilities, instead, they can ‘import' flexible employees from the around the EU.
The Consequences and Effects of Worklessness
Worklessness has consequences for the individual and society.
Consequences for the individual
- A loss of identity, status and self-esteem.
- Poverty and debts.
- Social isolation and social inclusion.
- A loss of identity that has arisen through lifestyle choices which are no longer available.
Consequences for the individual cont.
- More ill-health through poorer diets, stress and anomie arising from a loss of routine.
- Increasing family stress as a consequence of tighter financial situations and confusion over roles.
Consequences for society
- Declining trades union membership and fewer strikes as people become more concerned about losing their jobs.
- Declining or stagnating wage levels and potentially poorer working conditions because employers no longer need to attract workers.
- More alienation and dissatisfaction at work as people have fewer opportunities to change jobs and end up stuck in a job they no longer want or don’t enjoy.
Consequences for society cont.
- Increased poverty, homelessness, mental illness and other social problems.
- Rising demands on the welfare state; fewer people in work to pay the taxes to fund benefit payments, pensions and rising health costs.
Test yourself on Globalisation & Worklessness
Which is NOT an example of someone who would be classed as workless?