Philadelphia Workers in a Changing Economy

Book excerpt: This is the story of what has happened to the ways in which Philadelphians make a living. It describes the impact of the two world wars, the depression, and postwar prosperity on the structure and functioning of the labor market. Philadelphia Workers in a Changing Economy places the findings of a unique research program investigating the problems and conditions of a metropolitan labor market in their historical setting. While the book has special interest for individuals and organizations concerned with the economic welfare of Philadelphia and its environs, its significance is more than local. It compares trends in the nation and in other metropolitan centers with those in Philadelphia. In addition the economic development problems of cities in general and the flexibilities and inflexibilities of an urban labor force in adjusting to a changing economy receive considerable attention. The statistical data, methodology, and analysis will be of value to regional economists, labor market analysts, and students of manpower problems in major industrial and occupational groups.