ILR Press Books: The Working Class Majority

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The United States is not a middle-class society; the majority of Americans are actually working class. Michael Zweig emphasizes that recognizing this reality is crucial for the working class to gain political influence and social strength. He argues that "class" is fundamentally about power rather than income, and he explores how class intersects with race and gender. Zweig defines the working class as those with little control over their work and who do not supervise others. He warns that merging this class into middle-class or consumer categories obscures the true power dynamics, allowing capitalists to blend in with the wealthy. This distortion leads to viewing economic relations merely as income comparisons rather than as power contests in society. Through personal interviews, thorough research, and relatable examples, Zweig addresses pressing social issues like income inequality, welfare reform, globalization, government roles, and family values. He demonstrates that considering class fundamentally alters our understanding of these challenges. Advocating for limiting capitalist power to protect workers, communities, and the environment, Zweig presents actionable ideas for fostering a new working-class politics in the U.S.