Who is the author of 'Democracy at Work'?

The author of 'Democracy at Work' is Richard D. Wolff.

What are the main themes in 'Democracy at Work'?

The main themes in 'Democracy at Work' include Social Justice Movements, Business and Economics, Economic Policy, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'Democracy at Work'?

'Democracy at Work' is categorized as Politics and Current Affairs, Business and Economics.

What is the central premise of 'Democracy at Work'?

The central premise of 'Democracy at Work' by Richard D. Wolff is the advocacy for a new economic system called ‘worker self-directed enterprises’ (WSDEs). Wolff argues that traditional capitalism is flawed due to its inherent inequalities and power imbalances, particularly between owners and workers. He proposes that workplaces should be democratized, giving workers the authority to manage their enterprises collectively, thus fostering greater equality, sustainability, and workplace democracy. The book discusses how this model can challenge the current capitalist paradigm and promote a more equitable economic system.

How does Richard D. Wolff define workplace democracy in the book?

In 'Democracy at Work,' Richard D. Wolff defines workplace democracy as a system where the workplace is governed by the workers themselves rather than by owners or managers. This includes collective decision-making processes where employees have a say in how their work environment is structured and how profits are distributed. Wolff advocates for a model of worker cooperatives and democratic control that empowers employees, promotes equity, and enhances accountability within the workplace.

What are some examples of successful worker cooperatives mentioned in 'Democracy at Work'?

In 'Democracy at Work', Richard D. Wolff discusses several successful worker cooperatives, including: Mondragon Corporation: Based in the Basque region of Spain, it is one of the largest and most successful worker cooperatives in the world, encompassing various industries such as manufacturing, retail, and finance. The Arizmendi Cooperative Bakery: A network of cooperative bakeries in the San Francisco Bay Area, which emphasizes worker ownership and community engagement. Cooperativa Integral Catalana: A network of cooperatives in Catalonia, Spain, that advocates for economic democracy and sustainability by creating alternative economic models. Union Cab of Madison: A taxi cooperative in Wisconsin, where drivers collectively own and operate the business, sharing profits and decision-making.

What criticisms of traditional capitalism does Wolff raise in the book?

In 'Democracy at Work', Richard D. Wolff criticizes traditional capitalism for several key reasons: Inequality: Wolff argues that capitalism inherently leads to economic inequality, where wealth and power become concentrated in the hands of a few, creating a divide between the rich and the poor. Exploitation: He highlights how traditional capitalism exploits workers, as the profit motive incentivizes businesses to pay employees as little as possible while maximizing productivity. This exploitation undermines workers' rights and welfare. Instability: Wolff points out that capitalism is prone to cycles of boom and bust, leading to economic instability. He discusses how these fluctuations disrupt lives and livelihoods and create uncertainty. Consumerism: Wolff criticizes the focus on consumerism that capitalism promotes, which he sees as encouraging overconsumption and unsustainable environmental practices, adversely affecting society and the planet. Lack of Democracy in the Workplace: He emphasizes that traditional capitalist enterprises are often undemocratic, where decisions are made by a small group of owners or executives, leaving workers voiceless in matters that affect them. Overall, Wolff advocates for a more democratic approach to the economy, suggesting that workplaces should be structured as cooperatives where workers have a direct say in decision-making.

How does Wolff suggest implementing democratic practices in the workplace?

In 'Democracy at Work,' Richard D. Wolff suggests implementing democratic practices in the workplace primarily through the establishment of worker cooperatives and democratic participation in decision-making processes. He advocates for a shift from traditional hierarchical systems to models where workers have equal say in the management and governance of their workplaces. This includes collective decision-making, profit-sharing, and the elimination of the employer-employee divide. Wolff emphasizes the importance of education and organizing among workers to cultivate a democratic culture and promote solidarity, thereby empowering them to take control of their working conditions and outcomes.

Democracy at Work

In 'Democracy at Work', Richard D. Wolff challenges the conventional notions of democracy and the workplace, advocating for a radical transformation where workers have a say in their enterprises. Through compelling arguments and real-world examples, he explores the failures of capitalism and presents a vision for a more just and equitable economic system. Wolff introduces the idea of worker cooperatives as a feasible alternative, illustrating how they can empower employees and foster true democratic practices. This thought-provoking book urges readers to reconsider their understanding of democracy beyond the confines of politics and into the very fabric of their daily work lives. Are we ready to rethink who really holds the power in the workplace?

By Richard D. Wolff

Published: 2012

"Democracy is not merely a political system; it is a way of living that empowers every individual, fostering both equity and participation in the workplace."

Politics and Current Affairs Business and Economics Economic Policy Social Justice Movements

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

A new manifesto for gaining democratic control of our workplaces.

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Democracy at Work

In "Democracy at Work," Richard D. Wolff challenges the traditional understanding of democracy, which typically emphasizes political rights within the context of state governance, by arguing that these principles must be applied to the workplace as well. He posits that conventional workplaces function much like authoritarian regimes, where decisions are made by a select few at the top, leaving the majority of employees disenfranchised. For instance, he references worker cooperatives as a model for this shift, where employees participate directly in decision-making processes, thereby fostering a culture of collective ownership and accountability. This argument is significant because it addresses the inherent inequalities present in capitalist structures, suggesting that genuine democracy is only possible when workers possess real power over their labor and the fruits of that labor. Wolff's thesis connects to broader themes of economic justice and social equity, advocating for an economic system that empowers all participants rather than maintaining a hierarchical structure. By extending democratic practices to the workplace, Wolff envisions a society where individuals are not just cogs in a machine, but active contributors to their economic destinies.

About the Author

Richard D. Wolff

Richard D. Wolff is a distinguished economist, author, and professor known for his expertise in Marxian economics and critique of capitalism. He is the author of several notable works, including 'Capitalism Hits the Fan: The Global Economic Meltdown and What to Do About It' and 'Understanding Marxism.' Wolff's writing combines rigorous economic analysis with an accessible style, making complex ideas understandable to a broad audience. He is a prominent figure in promoting economic justice and has contributed significantly to public discourse on the challenges of contemporary capitalism.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Richard D. Wolff
Published: January 2012
Publisher: Haymarket Books
ISBN: 1608462471
Language: English
Pages: 208
Genres: Social Justice MovementsBusiness and EconomicsEconomic PolicyPolitics and Current Affairs

Purchase Options

Buy on Amazon

Buy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Great Transformation

Karl Polanyi

The Organized Mind

Daniel J. Levitin

Crises of Democracy

Adam Przeworski

Skin in the Game

Nassim Nicholas Taleb

The Power of a Woman's Words

Sharon Jaynes

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism

Shoshana Zuboff

Big, Hot, Cheap, and Right

Erica Grieder

Requiem for the American Dream

Noam Chomsky

Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Book Collections you might like →

Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations

Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.

View Collection

Alex Honnold's Book Recommendations

Alex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.

View Collection

Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.

View Collection

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

View Collection

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.

View Collection

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection

Bernie Sanders's Book Recommendations

Bernie Sanders is an American politician and U.S. Senator from Vermont, known for his progressive policies and his advocacy for economic equality. Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, inspiring a movement with his calls for Medicare for All, free college tuition, and a $15 minimum wage. He identifies as a democratic socialist and has been a long-standing advocate for labor rights, environmental justice, and social welfare programs. Sanders’ candidacy energized a new generation of activists and has had a lasting influence on the direction of the Democratic Party. His focus on income inequality and social justice continues to shape political discourse in the U.S.

View Collection

Showing 8 of 15 related collections

“Democracy is not merely a political system; it is a way of living that empowers every individual, fostering both equity and participation in the workplace.”

Democracy at Work

By Richard D. Wolff

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

Key Points from Democracy at Work

In "Democracy at Work," Richard D. Wolff challenges the traditional understanding of democracy, which typically emphasizes political rights within the context of state governance, by arguing that these principles must be applied to the workplace as well. He posits that conventional workplaces function much like authoritarian regimes, where decisions are made by a select few at the top, leaving the majority of employees disenfranchised. For instance, he references worker cooperatives as a model for this shift, where employees participate directly in decision-making processes, thereby fostering a culture of collective ownership and accountability. This argument is significant because it addresses the inherent inequalities present in capitalist structures, suggesting that genuine democracy is only possible when workers possess real power over their labor and the fruits of that labor. Wolff's thesis connects to broader themes of economic justice and social equity, advocating for an economic system that empowers all participants rather than maintaining a hierarchical structure. By extending democratic practices to the workplace, Wolff envisions a society where individuals are not just cogs in a machine, but active contributors to their economic destinies.

Democracy at Work

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from Democracy at Work

About the Author

Richard D. Wolff

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

The Great Transformation

The Organized Mind

Crises of Democracy

Skin in the Game

The Power of a Woman's Words

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism

Big, Hot, Cheap, and Right

Requiem for the American Dream

Take your reading experience to the next level

Book Collections you might like →

Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations

Alex Honnold's Book Recommendations

Ben Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bernie Sanders's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from Democracy at Work

Frequently Asked Questions