EP 421: AI, Automation, and the Case for Luddism
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Transformation of Workers in Capitalism: From Direct Control to Internalized Managerial Control
In pre-capitalist work, workers controlled their own labor and benefited from the product. In 19th and 20th century capitalism, workers submitted to bosses in exchange for wages while owners/shareholders benefited. In 21st century capitalism, workers are controlled by internalized managers and owners still benefit./nToday's workers share experiences with 19th century weavers and machinists. Taylor's scientific management program aimed to reshape workers as client subjects and promote a mental revolution towards their employers./nWhile workers may appear to exercise autonomy in being more productive, the logic of capitalism and self-surveillance prevails from Taylor's program.
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