Why Work Is Getting Worse

In today's modern society, the notion of progress often leads us to believe that work conditions should continuously improve for each new generation. However, the reality is that the quality of work is declining across various important metrics. This decline is characterized by decreasing pay, reduced job security, increasing debt burdens, and intensification of work hours. In this article, we will explore the factors contributing to the worsening state of work and its implications for the economy and individuals.

Decline in Pay and Productivity Disconnect

One of the most apparent indicators of declining job quality is the stagnation of wages despite increased productivity. Historically, productivity gains were reflected in higher wages for workers. However, since the 1970s, the rise in productivity has not translated into proportionate wage increases. Instead, the bulk of profits generated from increased productivity has been funneled to the wealthiest, exacerbating income inequality. This income disparity has significantly impacted the middle class, resulting in a loss of approximately $18,000 per year for an average American family.

Rising Costs and Growing Debt Burden

Not only are wages failing to keep up with productivity, but the cost of living is also skyrocketing. The expense of essential goods has far outpaced wage growth, forcing individuals to rely heavily on credit and accumulate significant debt. Job training, healthcare, and retirement are increasingly becoming the responsibilities of individuals, adding to the financial burden. As a result, the average American now carries around $90,000 in debt, leading to a growing reliance on credit for basic living expenses.

Extended Working Hours and Insecurity

The declining quality of work is not limited to reduced pay and increasing debt. Employees are now spending more time at work due to financial pressures and insecurity. Although working hours have remained relatively constant, employees are compelled to work longer to make ends meet and counteract declining wages. In addition, job security is diminishing as employers hire workers on a more intermittent and contractual basis, offering less protection and benefits.

Implications of Declining Job Quality on Retirement

In line with the deterioration of job quality, retirement prospects for workers have become increasingly challenging. The average retirement age has risen from 62 to 65 in the past 30 years, and some policymakers have even proposed further delaying access to Social Security benefits. This disproportionately affects poorer Americans, who rely heavily on Social Security and are more likely to face financial hardships before reaching retirement age.

Precarious Work and Gig Economy

The rise of precarious work arrangements, such as gig economy jobs, exacerbates the decline in job quality. Workers in these arrangements face less security, lower wages, and diminished access to benefits and unionization. The gig economy has seen significant growth in recent years, with 94% of net employment growth between 2005 and 2015 attributed to alternative work arrangements. This trend leads to heightened anxiety about job security and wage restraint among workers, further perpetuating the decline in job quality.

Impact on Children and Future Generations

The deterioration of job quality also affects the younger generation, with child labor laws weakening in some states and violations on the rise. Children as young as 13 are engaged in hazardous work, facing dangerous conditions and limited protections. This trend poses a significant concern for the well-being and development of future generations.

The Role of Capitalism and Shift in Power Dynamics

The underlying cause of declining job quality lies in the shift of power from workers to capitalists. With diminishing unionization and increased influence over policy-making, capitalists can extract more profit at the expense of workers' well-being. Neoliberal policies have further exacerbated this trend, transferring more responsibilities and costs to individuals and fostering job insecurity.

Conclusion

To truly address the decline in job quality, a paradigm shift is required. Relying on past systems like social democracy is not enough, as they are ultimately limited by the profit motive. To achieve genuine improvement, collective autonomy is necessary, where workers have more say in economic decisions and can prioritize their well-being over profits. Ultimately, the transformation away from capitalism is essential to create a work environment where dignity, safety, and a healthy work-life balance are paramount.

In the pursuit of improving job quality and creating a more equitable society, it is crucial to examine alternative systems that prioritize collective empowerment over profit-centric capitalism. By fostering collective autonomy and ensuring the fair distribution of resources, we can pave the way for a future where work is fulfilling and secure for all.