"In order to live, a community must produce," Melman (Demilitarized Society: Disarmament and Conversion) posits in this intelligent and hard-hitting critique of the U.S. economy and the current plight of American workers. Lamenting that we have lost the edge, and thus industries and jobs, as world-class producers of basic industrial equipment and are living on borrowed technology, Melman asks, "What is holding America's society and economy back from achieving a level of performance that is attainable and manifestly reachable?" He draws on a lifetime of scholarly research to frame the problem as a form of capitalism that, since the late 1940s, emphasizes accumulation of profit and power at the expense of American workers. Vigorous in his call to reverse these trends, he makes a compelling case to convert to a civilian-based economy from what he characterizes as an outmoded, destructive military-based model. Such a conversion would also require a major organizational change in the way most companies are currently managed. Melman cites examples of productive and profitable enterprises in other countries utilizing worker democracy, and he also highlights innovative approaches in this movement closer to home that are economically sound. Citing recent surges among professionals and academics organizing to reverse a decline in professional morale (and income), Melman holds out hope for a redefinition of productive communities through the worker empowerment he advocates. Illus. not seen by PW. (Oct. 7)
Forecast:This provocative critique of the received wisdom that the only way to run an economy is by unquestioning reverence for the bottom line appears at a time when many are disappointed that markets have not lived up to expectations. Melman's reputation as a respected scholar along with blurbs from the likes of John Kenneth Galbraith will draw the attention of policy makers, scholars and students. Those less familiar with social policy research may need reassurance that the challenging yet reasonably accessible nature of Melman's analysis won't be beyond them.
