No comments about Major Problems in the History of American Workers: Documents and Essays (Major Problems in American History Series).

1 comments about Making Sweatshops: The Globalization of the U.S. Apparel Industry.

1. Ellen Israel Rosen's "Making Sweatshops" is a detailed but thoroughly readable history of the U.S. apparel industry in the post-WW II era. It holds important lessons for those who want to learn how conditions for millions of workers have deteriorated so rapidly and what we might consider in order to correct the situation. The author's meticulous documentation and professional writing should also make this book valued by other serious researchers for many years to come.

   Ms. Rosen shows that power and ideology have played a large part in this story. The Asian apparel industry was allowed limited access to U.S. markets in order to contain the threat of Communist expansion in the early Cold War era. Later, neoliberal economists supported by the retail industry prevailed upon the Regan, Bush Sr. and Clinton administrations to promote apparel production in the Caribean and Mexico.

   The author shows that workers' rights have consistently taken a back seat to these larger political and economic concerns. She demonstrates that the tightly-controlled system of globalized production and distribution does not much resemble the mutually-beneficial free trade model envisioned by Adam Smith and David Ricardo. Instead, mostly young and female workers are prevailed upon to produce at poor wages; they are viewed as mere inputs in a closed-loop system of finance and production. If these workers protest against the low value that has been pre-assigned to their labor, the corporation can easily replace these workers or move elsewhere to achieve its profit objectives.

   Ms. Rosen's book helps us understand not only how the post-industrial era has come about but also how it has been such a boon to capitalist managers and financiers. On the other hand, the opening of markets to low-wage countries means that free trade has been a race to the bottom for the working class. She suggests that the future for apparel workers will be grim until disparities in wealth between rich and poor nations are narrowed and worker's and women's rights are acknowledged.

   Ms. Rosen has written a history book that matters a great deal with respect to the quality of life we enjoy both in the U.S. and around the world, and I strongly urge you to read it.

1 comments about The Hidden Injuries of Class (Open Market Edition).

1. This superb book puts a human face on those living and working at or near the economic bottom of our society. It describes in detail the emotional and personal ramifications of working in jobs that are looked down upon and stereotyped, as well as how family relationships are complicated by a parent's subordinate position and their desire and sacrifices for a child's success. It is easy-to-read and carries a profound message.

5 comments about The 2010 Meltdown: Solving the Impending Jobs Crisis.

1. This book provides the data that proves we are experiencing a skills crisis in America. Our culture promotes the "need" for a college education, yet only 15% of those who finish high school will ever attain a 2 0r 4 year degree. What about the other 85% of our kids? We need to quit drinking the kool aid being distributed by the colleges and pay attention to the Technical schools. Our young people can earn a great living and have skills that are in high demand by getting technical training. This book tells about that need -- and suggests ways to fix it.



2. Ed Gordon focuses on the workforce and the future. In his latest book, The 2010 Meltdown, he clearly outlines the relationship between education and economic development and the future implications across countries and continents. The book is packed with in-depth research and is presented in a crisp, no-nonsense style that is an easy read. There are no clear answers, but the reasoned approach provides food for thought on four-year colleges and the steps that should be taken for employment preparedness tomorrow. This problem is exacerbating despite globalization and a perceived increase in labor supply, and Dr. Gordon proves his understanding of the scope of the situation and potential outcomes we may experience.



3. My coworker Herb Schumann righfully implored me to purchase this book. It is compelling, stark and a call to action. Even in the realm of Human Resources, America has a shortage of professionally trained and experienced people to handle human relations. Our educational system still continues to be incorrecly rooted for an outmoded agrarian society. This is a counterproductive disaster and by the year 2010 it will be catostrophic. Dr. Edward Gordon is renowned in educational and training environments. He is reputed to be an oustanding lecturer on these subjects. This book was magnificent and in light of the monumental subject matter, it is imperative for Dr. Gordon to continue writing, updating and illuminating us in reference to the all-important educational/employment crises.



4. The 2010 Countdown grabbed my attention from the moment I opened it. It is well researched, data based, and yet exciting to read. Ed Gordon masterfully weaves facts, quotes, and anecdotes that engage readers of all learning styles through a history of the past, the reality of the present, and the hope of the future in dealing with the impending job crisis.
   
   While the book brings forth the start reality of labor shortages now and in the future, Gordon leaves the reader with a variety of solutions to consider. He draws conclusions from data that are not self evident but powerfully enrich his message.
   
   This is a book that when you finally put it down and reflect, there is a sense of clarity that urges you to take action in your own way to be part of a hopeful future.



5. The message of this book is that without life long learning all of us are at risk of being skills deficient for the coming work of the next 5 -10 years. If you're in your mid 40's and above you may not feel this is speaking to you - wrong! It is about learning new technology, skills, and ways of conducting your work no matter how comfortable you may feel in your current job situation.
   
   the gap of the have's and have not's is growing now in the area of skills attainment. It's not just whether you are literate - it's whether you are techno literate. I thoroughly enjoyed this look at our workforce crisis.
   
   I would say that I believe we are alrady well into this crisis and most people have no clue about it. We do need it to become something that is talked about around the kitchen table. It has to be about how jobs are going to India and China, jobs that are higher skilled and required higher education. So, as it's been said - go to school, learn, because someone in India or China is ready to take your job.

5 comments about No Logo: Taking Aim at the Brand Bullies.

1. This book is extremely useful and important and has a lot of thing to do with society.



2. In mid-nineteenth century England, poet William Blake indignantly portrayed poor children sneaking a peek from the windows of the factories where they slaved fifteen hours a day, to watch the rich and beautiful cavort in the meadows with their hounds and horses. In the United States of the 1920's, Socialists reveled in contrasting the plight of the downtrodden workers with the opulence of the Robber Barons who lived off their labor. Today, to someone sensitive to the plight of the world's poor, little could be more repugnant than the contrast between the vulgar consumerism of the masses in the advanced capitalist economies and the lowly condition of the destitute third world workers who sew their clothes and craft their sports gear.
   
   Naomi Klein is a prominent spokesperson for those disgusted with this contrast between rich masses in the developed countries and poor masses in the backward countries, the former benefitting obscenely from the low wages and poor working conditions of the latter who work sweatshops on their behalf. Klein wrote in a period when Nike, Wal-Mart, and other mega-corporations were under severe attack for oppressing their domestic and foreign workers. She and fellow activists had hoped this anti-corporate upsurge might turn into a full-fledged revolt that would dramatically improve the lot of low wage workers around the world.
   
   In the second edition of No Logo, which appeared in 2002, she notes that "These struggles may seem slight in retrospect, but you can hardly blame us media merchants for believing that we were engaged in a crucial battle on behalf of oppressed people everywhere: every step we took sparked a new wave of apocalyptic panic from our conservative foes." (p. 110) This movement has now subsided, and much of No Logo is an analysis of what went wrong.
   
   Klein's main argument is that modern advertising is so powerful that it is capable of co-opting the anti-corporate movement and turning the aspirations of its supporters to it own advantage.
   
   "Our sworn enemies in the `mainstream'---to us a giant monolithic blob outside of our known university-affiliated enclaves--didn't fear and loathe us, but actual thought we were sort of interesting. Once we'd embarked on a search for new wells of cutting-edge imagery, our insistence on extreme sexual and racial identities make for great brand-content and niche- marketing strategies. (p. 111) Culture jamming, the attack on corporate logos in massive demonstrations of disaffected youth, enjoyed a vigorous presence in this period, Klein notes (p. 287), but its major themes were quickly adopted by the advertisers to sell more stuff. (p. 297). Nothing, it would seem, can dent the sophisticated façade of the taste-makers.
   
   Naomi Klein is a fine writer with a real social conscience. While she wears this conscience on her sleeve, she never lapses into a strident or sanctimonious style. She hasn't a clue to the real nature of the phenomena with which she is dealing, however. Her major thesis lacks even prima facie plausibility.
   
   This thesis starts with the important insight that the success of the modern consumer goods corporation depends on its brand name reputation and sales, and hence can leave the actual production of consumer goods to a myriad of out-sourced factories and workshops. "Successful corporations," Klein writes, "must primarily produce brands, as opposed to products." (p. 3) The reason such firms as Nike and Wal-Mart locate production in low-wage third-world sites is, to quote: "When the actual manufacturing process is so devalued, it stands to reason that the people doing the work of production are likely to be treated like detritus---the stuff left behind." (p. 197)
   
   There is little plausibility to this argument. Is it not reasonable that in earlier times firms produced goods in the home country because they had great regard for their workers. They did so because home-country workers provided lower unit labor costs. Contemporary firms locate internationally when they think they can make higher profits that way, not when they lose respect and regard for their domestic work force. Moreover, aside from a fringe of activists, consumers are generally not willing to pay significantly higher prices for goods in order to benefit third world factory workers. This is not because people are selfish, but rather because the low-wage workers who produce their clothes and shoes have little impact on the daily lives of consumers, and only the most concentrated political agitation can raise this impact, and then only for a short period of time.
   
   It is also doubtlessly true that even a sustained effort to raise the wages of sweatshop workers would have little effect on the rate of poverty in third-world countries. More effective by far would be by the World Trade Organization succeeding in lowering tariff barriers against the import of third-world agricultural products, and by socially progressive groups and governments subsidizing third-world movements for democracy, representative government, civil liberties, the right to unionize. Klein correctly notes in regard to her study of the struggle of Philippine workers: "Because the Workers' Assistance Center's chief mission is to empower workers to stand up for their rights, WAC organizers don't much like the idea of Westerners sweeping into the zone brandishing codes of conduct, with teams of well-meaning monitors trailing behind." (p. 439).
   
   Like many progressive supporters of the third world poor, Klein's instincts are anti-globalization and even anti-market. Commenting on a picture of economist Milton Friedman being assaulted by pie-wielding demonstrators, Klein identifies Friedman as "architect of the global corporate takeover," and asserts that he is getting "his just deserts." (260) Friedman's strident free-market rhetoric is of course quite over the top, but in fact, third world countries that have attempted to compete in the world market place rather than shelter themselves from it have done quite well, and the recipes of Klein et al. are, conversely, doomed to impotence and failure. The idea of offering sweatshop workers decent wages is a wonderful one, but suggesting that this might be a way to improve the lot of the poor in the world economy is ludicrous. Perhaps a country with mountainous oil revenues can play at sounding anti-capitalist (e.g., contemporary Venezuela), but the future of prosperity in virtually all poor countries depends on developing markets and state institutions that support markets in a synergistic and democratic manner. It is up to us to help them attain this, rather than feeling good about ourselves because we pay an extra few cents for "fair trade certified" coffee beans.



3. No Logo is a well researched book that documents many of the things that are wrong with our consumer culture. While "No Logo" is definatly worth your time Klein's argument has one reoccuring flaw. She draws links between different phenomenon without showing how they relate to each other.
   
   According to Klein the switch from advertisements focused on quality to appeals to emotion made the brand more important than the product. In order to more effectivly manage the brand companies began outsourcing the task of actually creating the product, often overseas.
   
   This is where Klein's argument comes apart due to causal relationships that are not satisfying. She blames the poor working conditions found in many third world factories on the culture of brand awareness itself. Rather than focusing on the very real economic and legal issues at play Klein chooses to focus on describing how people have attacked advertisements and other symbols.
   
   While individuals should be encouraged to be active in righting wrongs Klein's idea of constructive actions are laughable at best. Drawing mustaches on advertisements or bloacking traffic with impromptu street parties do nothing to help the plight of workers in the third world. Klein's prescriptions for change are perfect for those who want to feel as if they are making a difference without making actual sacrifices.



4. Great book,just loved how it made me see the things that were so much part of my life and that I wouldn't question.
   
   Now my views are different, I catch the logos, I catch the subtle messages, I catch the hidden messages that drive me into the consumer that I am, and understand better why, how and who is behind all of it.
   
   This book is well researched, and even if written almost ten years ago, not much has changed in the world of marketing and how we are tricked into buying the things we don't need from across the world.
   
   A great read.



5. I found this to be somewhat of a depressing book. I never really understood the full concept and ramifications of "branding." What you may think is a tiring sequence of commercials and have a more nefarious background. Naomi Klein paints a rather bad image of the corporations on how they exploit third world nations to their own gain. Free Enterprise zones sounds really good but usually end up being a place where corporations can skirt laws about unionizing, worker safty, and the environment.
   
   I remember reading the issues of the garmet industry 100 years ago and yet many of the same tactics are in play today. What is sad is the fact it can go on because the people wish to have their trinkets and cloths for the cheapest rate possible.
   
   I thought was interesting is the effort of branding and I don't know if it was a factor but to develop and defend a brand; it would make sense to shed production to "free enterprise zones" to where you can reduce your labor costs to .23 an hour. The savings allows for further marketing efforts.
   
   One thing that disappointed me was the truth of the efforts of the Kenyan marathon runners attempting cross country skiing. Rather then being people who thought "I would like to try this" it turns out to be nothing more then a marketing stunt by Nike.
   
   Much of the book delves into Nike and Phil Knight. Basically he can be labeled as the poster child for sweat shops and branding.
   
   A surprising revelation was Kathie Lee Gifford and her act of contrition over the fiasco of her clothing line using sweat shops. She actively tried to to change things while the saintly Michael Jordan simply shrugged and said his job was shooting hopes and not politics when confronted with Nike's actions.
   
   I found the section about Shaq and Nike interesting. I remember when Shaq entered the scene and many thought he was the successor of Jordan for Nike. It turns out Shaq decided to develop his own brand and studied a little marketing and when Nike found he wasn't going to fall in line, they decided against him.
   
   I have often heard and argument in defense of sweat shops. Basically, they improve peoples lives by giving them options they would not have. After reading Klein's descriptions of "free enterprise zones" I don't understand how indentured poverty is better then poverty.
   
   The final chapter on culture jamming and the efforts of people to show the seedy sides of corporations was interesting and it gave a small sense of hope after reading the doom and gloom of the previous chapters. I used to think the WTO protesters were nothing more then anarchists who were just want to trash the area where ever they went. However, through Ms. Klein I have a different view point.
   
   All too often the phrase of power and corruption comes into to play. When great money is at hand the "moral" system changes to suit the needs of money. Often you hear the free market argument of if you don't like what the company does, go to the competitor. The problem is they are doing the same thing. When Nike fell from grace, the competitors rose to take it's place in the same actions.
   
   The chapter does make the case that the best way to make a company act in a "moral" standing they often like to portray is to bring attention and educate people to the ramifications of their purchases. It can be a powerful weapon as a quote in the book pointed out "It can take 100 years to build up a brand and 30 days to knock it down."
   
   There are many defenders for corporations but people should think about a comment in the book where it was said Nike thinks you are worthy to purchase their shoes but you are not worthy to make them.
   
   All in all this book is a "must read" no matter what side of the argument you stand. It is a well thought out and provocative to read.

No comments about The Theory of Environmental Policy.

1 comments about The Insanity of Empire: A Book of Poems Against the Iraq War.

1. Tired of Iraq and the bunk we have been given by Bush. Bly speaks with a straight tone and tongue and reminds us of our humanity, which we have lost in the past 8 years.

No comments about Global "Body Shopping": An Indian Labor System in the Information Technology Industry (In-formation).

3 comments about The Complete Idiot's Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business (2nd Edition).

1. The three (3) most important areas of any book are its content, writing style, and organization. Weltman's book is superb on all three counts. It is a detailed, succinct, point-by-point introduction to a growing and popular topic in today's fast-paced, changing society.

   Each chapter begins by explaining what you will learn, then explains key concepts at least twice in the middle, and finally summarizes the least you need to know about each aspect of the home business.

   The book itself is divided into six useful parts, plus appendices filled with helpful information. Each part focuses on a particular aspect of running a home business, such as: your reasons for wanting your own business, the types of businesses you can run (franchises, ready-made businesses, existing businesses, or your own pet project), financing the home business, setting up the home office, running the home office, and finally common personal issues unique to running the home office and scaling up.

   Broadly speaking, Weltman devotes an equal amount of space to each topic. However, some topics, such as taxation (any advanced student should keep a copy of that particular info very close by) receive a lot of attention, while others, such as planning and budgeting the start-up, are clearly de-emphasized. The book also includes a lot of useful information in little boxes on every other page such as entrepreneurial statistics, key business terminology, added information (based on experience) to help perform a particular aspect of your business better, and things to avoid while in business.

   In terms of content, the book is packed with plenty of information to get you started. Though the book is very comprehensive, more advanced readers may find it to be a bit redundant at times. Key terms, concepts, and absolutely need to know information are repeated often ( for the quick learner, ad nauseum) in each chapter. This use of repetition, however, does not weaken the book, as repetition is a proven method of learning new concepts.

   The book is heavily laden with useful contact information and resources. Weltman presents the essentials, the absolute bare bones structural framework for the typical home-based business. The book's major strength is its presentation of key issues in very general, easy to understand terms. You are not inundated with a lot of excess, useless resources and you are slowly and casually guided through each phase of your start-up. Weltman also thoughtfully includes good federal and state resources one can actually use.

   For the initiate, everything is discussed simply and clearly, as if the author is sitting right in front of you chatting over a delicious cup of Seattle's Best Coffee (sorry folks, but Starbuck's just doesn't cut it), but the more clever may find the book a slow and plodding read (this is a thick book, folks). Now, the book's major weaknesses lie in its utter lack of information on selling methods, management techniques (classic, coordinator, or craftsman), structuring employment contracts (especially for independent contractors), scheduling, getting and keeping customers, and operating a global business (my personal interest) from home.

   Weltman skillfully introduces all the things one should consider when starting a home based business. It is the approach I would take with those who want to start a business but have no idea as to how to start. Those who are really serious about starting their own home business should not stop with Weltman's book. Look to other books to present you with the meat on such topics as contracts, selling, and managing employees. More advanced readers can skip this book and start with Karen Cheney and Lesley Alderman's How to Start a Successful Home Business.




2. I found this book to be highly informative, and well put together. Like most Idiot's Guides, it was easy to read, just full of great information. I'd recommend this book to anyone.



3. I enjoyed the simplicity of this book. The book helped me understand what to expect from the attorney. Thanks!

1 comments about Union-Free America: Workers and Antiunion Culture (Working Class in American History).

1. Larry Richards was a prime leader in the drive to organize computer software engineers in the 1990's. He educated all of us - American workers, political leaders in Congress, the media and more - on the meaning of the H-1B and other alphabet visas and their effect on U.S. Workers, exploited foreign workers and America. Larry's efforts have been more than "Mr. Richards goes to Washington". The book is extradinarily well researched and written, and is easy to read. Everyone should read this to understand working in America.