SAGE Library of Social Research Series

Better conditions, improved pay, better personal relations, improved training -- these are some of the things that improve worker productivity, but in a very complex, difficult to define way. Macarov delves into these issues, exhorting researchers to make greater distinctions between hard work and good work, work in different jobs, and differing concepts of job satisfaction. He discusses the work personality and the future of the work ethic as increased leisure time becomes a reality.

′Macarov′s treatment of his subject is in addition, readable, lively, and often quite provocative, and his review of several topics including work as an ethos, the deficiencies of QWL programs, and the potential significance of work personalities is comprehensive and interesting.′ -- Personnel Psychology, Vol 36 No 2, Summer 1983

′Macarov′s study of Worker Productivity is a useful introduction to employee behaviour...It is clearly written and covers a wide range of material, dealing with such matters as work satisfaction, job design and incentives in a variety of social settings. The chapter on the kibbutz is particularly interesting...There is a wealth of references in this study, often as detailed as in a monograph, so it must be taken very seriously as at least optional reading for courses on work and motivation.′ -- Journal of General Management, Vol 8 No 4, Summer 1983

Worker Productivity

by David Macarov