Suzanne Loker

Globalization dramatically changed the way business is conducted in the apparel manufacturing industry. In many cases, these changes came with little regard to social responsibility in the design, production and sourcing of products. Social Responsibility in the Global Apparel Industry combines a broad analysis of apparel manufacturing with a discussion of how social responsibility can influence corporate strategy and decisions made throughout the global supply chain. Students learn how leading apparel and footwear manufacturers attempt to solve complex problems at all stages of the apparel manufacturing process, including child labor, harassment and abuse, discrimination, excessive hours of work, low wages and poor factory health and safety. Drawing on their experience in industry and research, the authors provide the tools to change the apparel industry from the inside out by preparing the next generation and current industry professionals with the awareness, knowledge and passion to make it more socially responsible. Features: -- Case studies, sidebars and interviews with individuals who work for multinational corporations, NGOs and labor groups related to the apparel manufacturing industry -- Comparative coverage of apparel manufacturing in various regions of the world, including China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam -- Instructor's Guide, edited by Danielle L. Stevens, provides suggestions for planning the course and using the text in the classroom -- Powerpoint presentation

Gender often influences the type of occupation that individuals choose, as well as the way they work and the outcomes of that work. Home-based employment is no different. The proximity of these workers to their families' living activities provides an unique opportunity to study the effects of work-at-home on family interaction and the role that gender plays in this traditionally female-dominated situation. The chapters provide a range of gender considerations from the perspectives of the workers and the workers' families, with emphasis on either the workers, the family, or the work/business. The first chapter provides an overview of the subjects being covered and defines several of the concepts used. The range of viewpoints is extensive: Chapter 2 considers home-based employment from a global perspective, while Chapter 8 narrows the focus to one particular location and type of home-based worker. Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 7 examine in various ways the data from a 9-state study, basing their analyses in theoretical and conceptual frameworks related to gender. Chapter 6 explores the dilemma of parents who have to hire child care in order to complete their home-based work. Also included are recommendations for public policy considerations.