Fragmented Futures: New Challenges in Working Life

Fragmented Futures examines how working life has become more 'fragmented' as a result of significant social and economic change in Australia in the last quarter of the twentieth century. It asks how we should address such fragmentation in pursuit of a society in which prosperity is shared, diversity, choice and opportunity are increased, and exclusion and inequality are minimised.The book begins by examining the dominant model for Australian working life throughout most of the twentieth century (known as 'Harvester man'), its breakdown and the response to date. It then explores the specific fragmentation processes that have occurred, using a combination of surveys, statistics and other qualitative and quantitative research. Trends and issues covered include:our aspirationsopportunities for work, unemployment and underemploymentindustry restructuring and the disappearance of jobs and occupationsthe growth of non-standard forms of employmentlonger and more intense working hourswage trends and the rising gap between rich and poorthe work/life balanceskills, training and educationretirement and superannuationhow international factors such as increased competition, consumption and investment have contributed to the above changes.Fragmented Futures provides a foundation on which to begin addressing the real social problems faced in work and life today. Its themes are at the core of everyday Australian experience; our response to its challenges will determine every Australian's future.Watson, Ian is the author of 'Fragmented Futures: New Challenges in Working Life', published 2003 under ISBN 9781862874718 and ISBN 1862874719.