Focusing on labour as a cultural phenomenon rather than an economic force, this book offers an assessment of the current situation and an exploration of the policy implications of theoretical conclusions. The authors have also written "Striking Out: Social Work and Trade Unionism, 1970-1985".

Part 1 Problems in the labour market: why don't people want to work?; the training gap; equality at work. Part 2 Reforms: education, training and industry; welfare and social security - the construction and reconstruction of the labour market; the reform of the unions; the cultural revolution in production. Part 3 Understanding the general social conditions of production; an assessment of the cultural conditions of labour today; political and social policies for valued labour.