In terms of economics, work, and occupation, the 1950s and 1960s in the history of the United States are defined as an “age of security.” There are several factors that support this conclusion, and the first one is connected with the global economic situation. After World War II, which had negatively affected a substantial number of countries, North America remained the only intact industrial economy with a protected market. As a result, the population was provided with rapidly created new working places, and the country experienced the peak of mass production.
The second factor is the social stability of employees due to management and a social contract between labor and capital. All relationships between employers and workers were predictable and regularized. Labor unions undertook all efforts to provide people with appropriate working conditions, health insurance, stable salaries, and a pension in exchange for productivity. In addition, the government protected workers and the protection of their civil rights. Career growth was possible for everyone who entered a company, and layoffs were rare and temporal in case of occurrence. Finally, an “age of security” was determined by the predictability of organizations’ strategies and working processes. At the same time, any enthusiasm from employees, employees’ satisfaction, individualism, and autonomy was not valued and appreciated.
In the present day, a considerable shift from a production-based to a people-centered approach may be observed. Managers currently realize that workers’ initiatives, motivation, and job satisfaction are the determinants of the company’s growth and development. However, appropriate working conditions, a sufficient number of working places, adequate wages, and safety are not guaranteed. In addition, outsourcing has already become typical for all sizes of business due to its cost-efficiency, but it has a highly negative impact on working opportunities for local people.