Labor Supply: Killingsworth (Cambridge Surveys of Economic Literature)

Labor Supply is a survey of and critical guide to recent theoretical and empirical work on labor supply models, both static and dynamic. The chapters on recent empirical studies and on dynamic models are of particular interest, because neither topic has so far been discussed in any detail in standard texts. Integrated within this survey is an extensive discussion of public policy issues relating to labor supply, including income transfer programs, such as welfare and Social Security, and the income tax system. A concluding chapter discusses secular trends in labor supply in the U.S. economy, in particular the long-run increase in female labor force participation. [The author] emphasizes the usefulness of storytelling as a means to communicate ethical principles and their application, and he uses contemporary books and movies to illustrate his themes. His book is based on conversations over the past 15 years with students, business practitioners, and other professionals regarding the relationship between business and ethics. The volume is organized around five approaches to ethics: "Speak Up Speak Out" (defining one's management style); "See the Big Picture" (recognizing forces that impact ethical practice); "Break the Rules, Make the Rules, Absorb the Cost" (driving change); "Tell Good Stories" (finding stories that celebrate the best in people); and "Test for Truth" (distinguishing fact from fantasy). This book takes a distinctive approach to teaching ethics by using storytelling to explore complex ethical topics. Hafrey's extensive teaching background and role as comaster of Mather House at Harvard College contribute to the rich conversations and thoughtful dialogue presented throughout the book. Valuable annotated bibliography/filmography of materials discussed.-Choice Mark R. Killingsworth. Includes Indexes. Bibliography: P. 446-478.