Feelings and Work in Modern History

This collection explores the intricate relationship between emotions and labor, providing insights into the significance of feelings in Feelings and Work in Modern History.

Work is an integral aspect of human life, yet it often lacks an emotional dimension. Feelings and Work in Modern History delves into the complex relationship between emotions and various forms of labor, both paid and unpaid, spanning from the late 19th century to the present. This edited collection seeks to illuminate the feelings associated with labor and the meanings that have evolved over time, highlighting the emotional labor predominantly performed by women in household and administrative roles, which underscores ongoing gender inequalities.

The book critically reassesses the concept of 'emotional labor' and its implications within the context of work. It examines how societal values regarding labor have shifted, the strategies workplaces employ to regulate emotions, and the emotional experiences of workers across different regions, including Europe, Asia, and South America, throughout the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. By addressing the physical and emotional toll of certain workplace practices, Feelings and Work in Modern History reveals the complexities of emotional responses to labor and the joy that can also be derived from work.

Moreover, the collection tackles the concept of 'work-life balance', scrutinizes evolving definitions of professionalism, and engages with the historical narratives of capitalism and neoliberalism. By doing so, it provides insight into how these histories continue to shape the emotional landscape of labor today and in the future, making it a vital read for those interested in understanding the interplay between emotions and work.