...´ NOELLE J. MOLE PRINCETON UNIVERSITY Living it on the skin: Italian states, working illness A B S T R A C T In this article, I examine the codification of an Italian work-related illness caused by mobbing, a type of psychological harassment that emerged at the moment neoliberal policies transformed Italy’s historically protectionist labor market. I trace how the medicalization of mobbing has expanded workers’ access to compensation, resources, and discursive tools for criticizing neoliberal labor conditions, even as it has produced new structures of surveillance. I unravel the neoliberal politics of a state that protects workers’ health yet governs worker–citizens through an apparatus of medical experts. I find that workers’ labor problems are experienced and managed as bodily problems in ways important to remaking Italian citizenship. [neoliberalism, state, labor, biopolitics, citizenship, bodies, Italy] An institution, even an economy, is complete and fully viable only if it is durably objectified . . . in bodies. —Pierre Bourdieu1 It was the spirit of capitalism made flesh. —Upton Sinclair2 n 2003, a new psychophysical disturbance, organizational coercion pathology (disturbi psichici e fisici da costrittivit` organizzativa sul a lavoro), or OCP, became a work-related illness that was insurable by an Italian state public-health institution (Istituto Nazionale per l’Assicurazione contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro [INAIL] 2003).3 Telltale symptoms, often likened to those...
Words: 18731 - Pages: 75
...THE LIVING WAGE AND ITS EFFECT ON THE ECONOMY INTRODUCTION The topic of our study investigates the living wage and its effect on the economy. A survey will be distributed asking questions about wages, cost of living, and making ends meet. Our conclusions and recommendations on the topic of living wages will result from this survey. BACKGROUND The definition of living wage is “a term used to describe the minimum hourly wage necessary for a person to achieve some specific standard of living. This means a person working forty hours a week, ”should be able to afford housing, food, utilities, transportation, health care and recreation” at a basic level. (Wikipedia.org). Currently, a living wage is set by local municipalities based on a local cost of living assessment, and applies only to government employees and/or contractors. This is different from minimum wage, which is set by law through the Federal government. The federal minimum wage is the minimum amount that a worker can be paid an hour and this law applies to nearly all workers. In Michigan, the minimum wage is currently $7.40 an hour. Minimum wage does not always meet the requirements of a living wage. (Wikipedia.org). For example, in 2008, East Pointe, MI paid its employees a living wage of $10.40/hr , while Detroit, MI paid its employees and contractors $8.25/hr, both with health benefits in comparison to $7.40/hr Federal minimum wage.(laborstudies.wayne.edu/ According to the Economic Policy Institute...
Words: 4342 - Pages: 18
...Another incentive to increase the minimum wage is the fact that living costs simply do not add up for minimum wage workers. That is to say, the current minimum wage simply does not match the current living wage for most of these Americans. A living wage is essentially the income necessary for a person to provide for themselves or their family. In a 2014 article for CUNY’s New Labor Forum, Peter Dreier recalled the introduction of the term “living wage” itself removed stigma attached to low-wage workers because it revealed the problem not as a situation of people who are in poverty due to bad decisions and lack of intelligence or motivation but rather as a situation where mothers, fathers and children’s can’t even make the means to meet their basic physiological needs despite working full-time, (Dreier, 2014). Economists calculate recommended living wages based on the cost of living in a given area and the housing size as well if it is a single parent household. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the current minimum wage was determined by amendments passed by the Fair Labor Standards Act in 2007 that proposed it would be incrementally be raised to $7.25 per hour effective on July 24, 2009, (U.S. Department of Labor). This rate has not increased since then despite ever-increasing living costs and despite the fact that productivity has risen, where productivity is measured by how much output can be produced in an average hour of work. According to analyst Lawrence Mishel...
Words: 655 - Pages: 3
...The core of assisted living care is individual support. Facilities use an Individual Service Plan (also called a care plan) approach based on the person's daily care requirements. Before move-in, a resident and their family meet with the selected assisted living facility staff to develop a comprehensive, customized care program based on the individual's interests, needs and desires - many times referred to as an assessment. The Individual Service Plan helps define the services provided, in addition to the costs associated with such services. Understanding the specific services offered and the costs associated with each service will help you make a more informed decision when selecting a facility. What is a Care Plan Assessment? Care assessment A care plan evaluation is key to quality care and the strategy for how the staff helps the individual. It lays out what type of care and the time increments administered by each staff member, in addition to additional costs associated with the services. An assessment regularly reviews the resident's care and revised as needs change. It gathers information about how well the resident is able to care for oneself. It measures the person's functional abilities: how well a person walks, talks, eats, dresses, bathes, sees, hears, communicates, comprehends, and recalls. The assessment also defines a person's habits, activities and relationships so that the staff can better assist the resident in living comfortably and feel at home...
Words: 451 - Pages: 2
...Consumer Price Index of states that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a “market basket” of consumer goods and services. Some background into how the Consumer Price Index came about. The Consumer Price Index was initiated during World War I, when rapid increases in prices, particularly in shipbuilding centers, made an index essential for calculating cost-of-living adjustments in wages ("United states consumer," n.d.). To provide appropriate weighting patterns for the index, so that it would reflect the relative importance of goods and services purchased in 92 industrial centers in 1917-1919("United states consumer," n.d.). Periodic collections of prices were started, and, in 1919, the Bureau of Labor Statistics began publication of separate indexes for 32 cities ("United states consumer," n.d.). Regular publication of a national index, the U.S. city average began in 1921, and indexes were estimated back to 1913 using records of food prices ("United states consumer," n.d.). Because people's buying habits had changed substantially, a new study was made covering expenditures in the years 1934-1936, which provided the basis for a comprehensively revised index introduced in 1940 ("United states consumer," n.d.). During World War II, when many commodities were scarce and goods were rationed, the index weights were adjusted temporarily to reflect these shortages ("United states consumer," n.d.). In...
Words: 2885 - Pages: 12
...People value each other by what they have or can afford to buy, therefore disconnection in communities increases day by day and eventually causes unhappiness among humanity. Moreover, redundant amount of consumerism causes alarming decreases of natural resources and makes it impossible to live a sustainable green world. The waste of resources also threatens the existence of future generations since the world we know will be consumed totally by then. Although consumerism is an undeniable element in economy its implications are corruptive for both people’s happiness and sustainable development in order to change this destructive system, alternative ways of living should be practiced in life styles, and economic structures. Consumerism’s effects on life styles are very distinctive we can see how people adjust their way of living an imperialistic system, how they change their daily habits and family interactions however all these alterations leads certain way of corruption through society and brings out individualism which eventually causes unhappiness. Consumer actions penetrated into people minds in recent years, as a result individuals are valued by what they purchase. Consequently, to overcome this shallow classification, the philosophy of simplistic lifestyle have become more significant than ever. Due to create the acceptance of...
Words: 1256 - Pages: 6
...Argue whether or not "Simple living" would be beneficial or, even, possible in modern society In this contemporary society, simple living is an uncommon practice. However, making one’s life simple requires consistency, determination, and demanding practice. Everyone perceives the meaning of simple living differently since it is a deliberate way of living. For example, some people are willing to forgo everyday amenities such as cell phones, televisions, and the internet whereas some others are not, but instead are ready to give up things like expensive cars, jewelries, large homes, and so on. Although, downsizing one’s life requires people to do without certain things, it’s satisfying and rewarding since it helps to reduce expenses and consumption, alleviate stress and hassles in life, and improve the quality of life. Simplifying one’s life makes one refrain from frivolous spending and excessive consumption, which will consequently increase savings so that expenses can be met on time. One would be well-budgeted to meet unforeseen circumstances. Moreover, most people do not know the difference between needs and wants. For instance, a Mercedes Benz, which is a luxury good could be considered a basic necessity in this modern society. Everyone needs the basic necessities, that is, food, water, clothes, and shelter to subsist. However, reducing unnecessary possession and consumption on these necessities would be of a great deal of help. For example, instead of eating outside...
Words: 643 - Pages: 3
...back in history we go, it seems to become more primitive. Observing the photo of the soldiers in their living quarters brings a realization to how relatively spoiled soldiers at war today really are. Although none of the soldiers in this specific photo look particularly displeased, they don’t have any comparison to give as this is the only standard of war they know. You can tell each soldier was a very hard working individual. In the photo, you can see soldiers participating in various laborious activities from sweeping to chopping wood. Everything was more involved than it is today with a much lower quality of living during the Civil War. To me, this single photograph goes a long way in telling the story of the life of a soldier during the Civil War. Others could take a look at the photograph and gain a better understanding for the hardships of the Civil War and further appreciate those in the military today. We can also gain a better appreciation for the improved living standards for any United States campaign today. Of course, technology has come a long way for us to look at this photo and find it hard to believe that this is how war was conducted, but to see it in a photograph really makes it real. I strongly believe photographs are worth a thousand words, and can, at times, teach more than a text book is able to. Going further into the difference in the standards of living during the Civil War and present day can clearly be seen in the photo of an on-site amputation being...
Words: 514 - Pages: 3
...International Business – Bolivia Lithium William Ratliff Tarleton State University Dr. Baeza BUSI 4344 International Business – Online The Scenario The main objective of this assignment is to watch a video clip and answer some of the main questions that are addressed in this particular assignment (Buckley, 2004). This entire video clip is focused on the country of Bolivia and lithium, one of its major natural resources. The salt flats of Bolivia are estimated to contain over six million tons of untapped lithium. According to the video clip, Bolivia is also the poorest country located on South American continent. The acute poverty results in certain issues that need to be addressed, thereby allowing Bolivia to grow into a prosperous nation. Analysis & Discussion What are the Main International Management Problem(s)? After viewing the video, it is found that the major problem lies in the poverty and lack of education of its people and the corruption of its politicians (Buckley, 2009). There are many reasons why other countries, both within and outside of the region, would not want to see Bolivia prosper and increase its financial potential. Many of Bolivia’s neighbors are economically stable and their strength grows yearly. On the other hand, Bolivia itself is going in the opposite direction i.e. the standard of living in this country is extremely low (Eun and Resnick, 2007). One of the biggest problems or issues associated with this managerial problem is the lack...
Words: 1443 - Pages: 6
...term care for people just getting out of the hospital or recovering from an injury or surgery. Another type of long term care is ongoing. This type of service is used for people who have permanent disabilities, chronic severe pain, and dementia. Long term care services can be provided in the patient’s home, a relative’s home, or in a nursing or assisted living facility. Continuum of care in the United States is an integrated system of care that guides and tracks patients over time through a comprehensive array of health services. The continuum of care allows for the patient to have their care managed effectively from the basic care to more advanced hospital and critical care cases. The continuum of care helps keep track of records so that the doctors do not have to keep reordering the same test. Long term care is becoming an issue is the United States because more and more people are reaching old age and therefore coming into the problems of aging. They are needing the long term care nurses and they do not have enough nurses to go around. Staffing is a big problem with long term care. Another reason is that many seniors are living alone and they need more care and with the limited staffing and not wanting to pay overtime it is becoming a serious...
Words: 327 - Pages: 2
...Organizational Design KijaKazi Saddyk October 22, 2012 HCS/514 VINNETTE BATISTE Organizational Design Senior Suites Independent living facility is part of a residential, private, non-profit, consumer controlled, community based organization that provides income based apartments for seniors over 62, that can independently live on their own. There are several internal and external factors that has defined and shaped our organizations size, structure and how it processes. Some of the internal factors are: cost, size, product and communication, addressing these factors can either help or hinder the organization. However, the external factors of the organization are: competition, customers/residents, resources, qualified employees, government and public opinion. These factors have been addressed often to keep the organization profitable. The internal factor that defines the structure of our organization is the amount of money that is spent to keep the facilities afloat. There are several programs and essentials that are offered at the facility that are not included in the cost to the residents. We offer transportation to and from the grocery stores, laundry facility on the premises, daily activities that will allow the residents to participate in different forms of exercise. These things are afford to the residents at the expensive of the organization. The size of the organization depends on each individual facility...
Words: 1125 - Pages: 5
...live by his theory of a simple life in the 1800’s as opposed to today because of the latest advancements in technology. The American population has become very dependent on the luxuries of life (such as the computer, the car, the cell phone, etc.) that it would be more difficult to live and function without them. Thanks to the media and advertising, there is a constant race between people to obtain the latest technology or even fashion apparel. For example; about a three weeks ago, a pair of Jordan sneakers, the Concords, were released in stores. Almost every teenager in America battled to buy these sneakers. It got way out of hand, to the point where a group of boys stabbed a young man just to steal his sneakers. Thoreau’s idea of living a simple life should be taken more into consideration these days. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. The general public is more materialistic these days than ever and it would be very difficult to break them out of this habit. Thoreau talked about how he once considered buying the Hollowell farm for himself but the purchase failed. Instead, he decided to live at Walden for a period of time, where he found joy and satisfaction in nature, truly opening his eyes to a more enjoyable and peaceful life, while most of society remained perpetually blind. After his encounter with nature at Walden, he realized that a happy life is...
Words: 805 - Pages: 4
...Decisions in Paradise, Part I MGT/350 January 9, 2012 Kevin McPhee Kava is an important island country located in South Pacific. One disaster on top of another plagued the country. Kava needs help to get on the road of recovery. Alex, director of strategic planning, and I will represent The Hermitage at Cedarfield as we strive to help Kava recover, grow, and succeed. To do my part in this project in Kava, I will use my decision-making skills to assist Alex and me in making sound decisions to help the country get back on its feet. The first step I will take to find a solution for Kava’s problems is determining the issues that hinder Kava. Next, I will discuss what created the problems. Last, I will describe the environmental and organizational obstacles that will impact key stakeholders. When Alex and I put our heads together, Kava will be on its way to being the country it once was, paradise. Issues that Appear in Kava and their Formulation Upon arriving in Kava, I did not expect to see what I did. The disaster within the country was devastating. The country was a complete mess. I realized that Kava was in dire need of help and knew that the Hermitage at Cedarfield would do a great deal of good for the country. After touring most of the country and discussing the condition of the country with Alex, the importance of making our company present in this part of the world is clearly visible. Kava not only faces economic...
Words: 1097 - Pages: 5
...Decisions in Paradise, Part I MGT/350 January 9, 2012 Kevin McPhee Kava is an important island country located in South Pacific. One disaster on top of another plagued the country. Kava needs help to get on the road of recovery. Alex, director of strategic planning, and I will represent The Hermitage at Cedarfield as we strive to help Kava recover, grow, and succeed. To do my part in this project in Kava, I will use my decision-making skills to assist Alex and me in making sound decisions to help the country get back on its feet. The first step I will take to find a solution for Kava’s problems is determining the issues that hinder Kava. Next, I will discuss what created the problems. Last, I will describe the environmental and organizational obstacles that will impact key stakeholders. When Alex and I put our heads together, Kava will be on its way to being the country it once was, paradise. Issues that Appear in Kava and their Formulation Upon arriving in Kava, I did not expect to see what I did. The disaster within the country was devastating. The country was a complete mess. I realized that Kava was in dire need of help and knew that the Hermitage at Cedarfield would do a great deal of good for the country. After touring most of the country and discussing the condition of the country with Alex, the importance of making our company present in this part of the world is clearly visible. Kava not only faces economic struggles...
Words: 1097 - Pages: 5
...Brendon Burchard, the protagonist learns how to change his life, to put him on the right path. Dwelling on the past negative events of the past only made it hard to move on, but prevent him from moving on presently. This is an important lesson that the protagonist learns, but he also needs to learn about going forward with a positive attitude, and I will teach him this lesson through my attraction of the rollercoaster. When someone is being a negative person, they are opposed to changes. In the beginning of the novel, the protagonist starts out closed minded with a negative attitude. The protagonist already decided that the world is a dark and dangerous place, other people are unfair and hurtful, and you yourself are inadequate. He was living his life in a dark and as a puppet to society. He would come home from work in misery, sensor out his fiancé, and added a disclosure sign to his life. In chapter 10, the protagonist learns what caused the negativity in his life and is taught how to deal with it. He defeated his first opponent, but failed to defeat himself. “A mirror image of me stepped onto the deck. He wore the same clothes that I did. He stood the same way I did. He held the same shield and sword” (91) the protagonist is confronted with his negative self. This quote is significant...
Words: 1263 - Pages: 6