Labor: Definition, History, and Characteristics
Labor has been defined as work which is done for purposes other than leisure or recreation, and is typically done in exchange for something of value, either in the form of money or goods and services. Throughout history, labor has been an integral part of the development and growth of societies, and it has also been a source of both conflict and progress. This article will discuss the definition of labor, its history, and some of its characteristics.
Definition of Labor
The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines labor as “any activity that involves physical or mental effort, and is performed in exchange for remuneration or profit.” This includes activities such as agricultural work, manufacturing, construction, transportation, services, and other activities. The ILO also notes that labor can be divided into two categories: waged and non-waged labor. Waged labor is work done in exchange for a wage or salary, while non-waged labor is work done for other forms of remuneration, such as a share of the profits or a piece rate.
History of Labor
Throughout history, labor has been an integral part of the development and growth of societies. In ancient times, labor was often organized around the family unit, with individuals working together to grow food, make tools, and build shelters. With the advent of the industrial revolution in the 18th century, labor began to be organized in factories, and the growth of large cities created a need for new forms of labor. This led to the development of new industries, such as manufacturing, transportation, and service industries, which created jobs for a large number of people.
The 19th century also saw the emergence of labor unions, which were created to protect the rights of workers and to ensure fair wages and working conditions. The emergence of the labor movement in the late 19th century was an important step in the struggle for improved wages and working conditions for workers. In the 20th century, the labor movement continued to grow and expand, with the creation of the International Labor Organization in 1919, and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
Characteristics of Labor
Labor is characterized by a number of different characteristics. First, it is typically characterized by a division of labor, with individuals performing specific tasks which are part of a larger process. Second, labor is often organized in a hierarchical structure, with workers performing different tasks at different levels of the hierarchy. Third, labor often involves the use of tools and machines, which help to increase productivity and efficiency. Finally, labor is often characterized by the use of collective bargaining and negotiation, in order to ensure fair wages and working conditions.
Conclusion
Labor is an integral part of the development and growth of societies, and it has been a source of both conflict and progress throughout history. This article has discussed the definition of labor, its history, and some of its characteristics. It is clear that labor is a complex and varied phenomenon, and it is likely to remain an important part of the economic and social landscape in the future.
References
International Labour Organization. (n.d.). What is labour? Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/labour/what-is-labour/lang–en/index.htm
International Labour Organization. (n.d.). The history of labour standards. Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/labour-standards/history/lang–en/index.htm
International Labour Organization. (n.d.). The concept of labour. Retrieved from https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/labour/the-concept-of-labour/lang–en/index.htm
Lambert, R. (2004). The history of the labour movement. The Encyclopedia of Canadian Social History. Retrieved from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/the-history-of-the-labour-movement
United Nations. (1948). The Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/en/universal-declaration-human-rights/