Why Millions of Workers Quit in the US: A Deep Dive into Automation, Inflation, and Labor Rights

Since the 1960s, the manufacturing sector has experienced significant changes due to advancements in automation. Coupled with rising inflation and a shift in societal values, many workers have chosen to leave their jobs, leading to a labor force exodus, particularly since the early 2020s.

The Rise of Automation

Automation has been a transformative force in the US manufacturing landscape, particularly since the late 1970s and early 1980s. The manufacturing industry in the US used to be the backbone of the economy, with a high percentage of full-time jobs directly or indirectly related to manufacturing by 1966, according to the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) in 1966.

A striking example comes from the production statistics in the 1980s. As illustrated, a production line that was moving at 1600 feet per minute on a 16-foot wide web in 1978 required 8-9 men to operate it. By 1988, although the production line had increased its speed to 3000 feet per minute on a 30-foot wide web, only 2 men were required. This illustrates a dramatic increase in efficiency: in just 10 years, the output per man per hour had increased by 16 times. Consequently, the job of 3 other plants became redundant. This was largely a result of advancements in 8/16-bit microprocessors released in 1978-1979.

The benefits of automation do not come without costs. According to the provided information, real unemployment metrics are estimated to be between 50-65%, resulting in the current state of homeless encampments, reminiscent of the Great Depression of the 1930s. This statement underlines the significant social, economic, and even psychological impacts of such technological advancements.

Impact of Inflation and Rising Costs of Living

Inflation and rising costs of living have significantly impacted the decision-making process of many workers. In the early 2000s, it became increasingly common for women to stay home due to the rising costs of childcare. Concurrently, many individuals found that the financial burden of maintaining a standard of living was unsustainable, leading to a shift in their priorities.

The economic burden of raising a family, combined with the increasing cost of inflation, often made it more financially feasible for people to opt out of the workforce, stay home, or look for alternative employment that offered more stability and fewer demands. This shift in behavior, driven by economic pressure, has contributed to a significant decrease in workforce participation.

Disengagement and Apathy Amidst Political and Economic Turmoil

The past decade has been marked by issues of ambition and engagement, as many workers have become disillusioned with the pursuit of material possessions. Factors such as political turmoil, economic instability, and a creeping sense of societal tyranny have led to widespread apathy. People have come to the conclusion that materialism is not as desirable as previously thought. In essence, food, drink, and shelter provide the necessities of life, and anything beyond that is irrelevant.

Propositions such as Fauci creating Covid-19 and subsequent lockdown policies have further contributed to a cynical and apathetic society. Events like these have fueled the notion that the establishment is not entirely trustworthy, leading to a rejection of traditional values. As a result, many individuals have re-evaluated their priorities, seeking a simpler, more relaxed lifestyle.

The Role of Unethical Business Practices

The business landscape has been plagued by unethical practices for decades, a trend that has only worsened over time. Business owners and managers often exhibit a disrespectful and exploitative attitude towards employees, viewing them as mere commodities to be utilized and discarded. This devaluation of the workforce has not been lost on the employees, many of whom have witnessed a shift from mutual respect and cooperation to a one-sided and hostile work environment.

This shift has been particularly evident during job interviews, where a call for a "mutually beneficial relationship" between employers and employees has met with confusion and disgust. These interactions strongly suggest that a sense of trust and dignity between workers and their employers has eroded, replacing it with a more transactional and unfulfilling work relationship.

In conclusion, the factors driving the workforce exodus in the US are multifaceted, encompassing automation, inflation, societal changes, and unethical business practices. Understanding these factors is crucial for addressing the underlying issues and finding solutions to stabilize the workforce and the economy.