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International Socialism, Winter 1964/5

 

Richard Hyman

Shift Work

 

From International Socialism, No.19, Winter 1964/5, p.29.
Transcribed & marked up by Einde O’Callaghan for ETOL.

 

The Economics of Capital Utilisation: a Report on Multiple-Shift Work
Marris
Cambridge, 45s.

In this work – the product of nearly ten years research – a theoretical analysis of considerable complexity is followed by a survey of the extent of multiple-shift working in British industry. Since shift-work raises labour costs, it is most likely to be profitable in capital-intensive industries, or where continuous working reduces operating costs; yet profitability also depends on other factors, and the author’s research has produced few definite practical conclusions; it is thus difficult to determine whether firms at present make the most profitable use of shift-work.

Although extensive shift-work is correlated with rapid economic growth, Mr Marris warns that both may be determined by more basic factors. It is noteworthy that one such factor cited is ‘scale restraint’; Marxists will recognise here a classic contradiction of capitalism: the market for increased production is limited, because high profits are required to finance investment. The introduction of improved – and more costly – capital equipment normally requires a high rate of utilisation; thus the number of workers involved in shift systems – at present less than one in eight – may be expected to rise. However, the social costs of shift-work may well outweigh its profitability; and Mr Marris admits that a ‘free market cannot lead to a valid solution ... the determination of the rate of capital utilisation provides a classic example of the inability of market mechanisms to make rational choices on society’s behalf.’ Here may be seen a frank avowal of the inadequacy of capitalism; the obvious conclusion to be drawn is that technological development and growing mechanisation will increase the urgency of socialism. If decisions to introduce or extend shift-work are to be based on an assessment of social costs and benefits, workers’ control is essential.

 
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