Harry Braverman

1920-1976

Braverman begins his analysis by pointing to a contradiction in the literature on work. There is the widespread belief and assertion that modern occupations are more demanding in terms of technical skills, educational levels, and training. So entrenched is this belief that it is rarely questioned or examined. However, even some of the same people making these assertions are reporting widespread dissatisfaction with work--the hours, the pace, the lack of meaningful participation, low morale, high absenteeism, and early retirement. These two views, he points out, are somewhat contradictory, though there is little attempt in the literature to reconcile these differences. This is surprising in that work, Marx (and thus Braverman) asserts, is central to the human animal. It is through work that men and women realize their very humanity. Braverman does Marx better than Marx does Marx. His analysis of 20th century capitalism and its impact on workers is the best in the literature. Do not be put off by the title of his main work, Labor and Monopoly Capital, it is an exciting read.

Study Questions:
Address the following questions fully and completely in your own words and voice; save your answers electronically. You will see at least one of these questions on your next unit exam in which you will be asked to demonstrate that you have read and mastered the material. Prepare your answers now.

What is "the problem of management"?

What is the detailed division of labor? What functions does it serve? What dysfunctions?

Describe scientific management? Is it in widespread practice in corporate America?

What is the commodification of social life?

Discuss the growth of the working class under monopoly capitalism. How is this different than earlier industrial societies?

Read:

Read Chapter 2: "Braverman's Marxist Analysis" in Macrosociology: The Study of Sociocultural Systems.

Harry Braverman's Marxist Analysis

Recommended Reading:

Big Business Moves in on the Farmer

Reference:

Braverman, Harry (1974/1998) Labor and Monopoly Capital: The Degradation of Work in the Twentieth Century. New York: Monthly Review Press.

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