RETURN TO THE WORKER QUESTION - STEPHANE BEAUD, MICHEL PIALOUX

The working class, once the foundation of society, shaped in the 19th century as a constant point of reference, a central problem mobilizing minds and hearts, has changed its face. What remains of this powerful force? Are these isolated, atomized individuals, torn by divisions and subjected to performance pressure? Or are the sparks of old solidarity still smoldering?

• In-depth analysis of changes in the working class
• Years of research in the Peugeot factory
• Confrontation of the work ethic of workers and managers
• Universal problems and paradoxes of the modern world of work
• Published by Oficyna Naukowa
• Year of publication 2022
• Number of pages 544

The monograph by Stephane Beaud and Michel Pialoux is the result of years of qualitative and quantitative research conducted in the heart of the Peugeot factory. The authors, drawing on the French tradition of sociological and ethnological research, show the complexity of the modern world of work. The factory, as a meeting place for managers and workers, becomes an arena for the confrontation of two different ethos – modernity and creativity on the one hand, and hard, physical work on the other. This book helps to understand how the perception of work has changed and how these changes affect the lives of individuals and entire societies.

Beaud and Pialoux analyze the public and scientific discourse, which often focuses on immaterial work and the ethos of the middle class, marginalizing the role of workers and material work. This phenomenon contributes to the belief that workers are disappearing, which in turn leads to the marginalization of their problems and needs. The authors expose this process, giving a voice to those who are often overlooked in public debate.

Although the authors' diagnoses relate to the realities of France, most of the problems and paradoxes they identify are universal in nature. Pressure to perform, divisions within the working class, difficulties in pursuing common goals – these are just some of the challenges facing workers around the world. This book is a valuable source of knowledge for all those who want to understand the modern world of work and the role that workers play in it.

“Return to the Worker Question” is a must-read for sociologists, economists, political scientists, as well as for all those interested in social issues and changes taking place in the modern world. This book encourages reflection on the future of work and the role that workers play in it. Its universal character makes it a valuable read for readers around the world.

Oficyna Naukowa, year of publication 2022, 544 pages, paperback, format 142x221 mm. The book is available in good bookstores and online.