Some practices that would seem to decrease worker output may in the long run lead to increased productivity. For example, longer vacation times, mandatory paid vacation time, restrictions on overtime, and shorter work weeks would reduce burnout and stress significantly. Similarly, labor laws should empower workers to a greater degree to offer more job satisfaction. Workers who are secure in their jobs are more likely to view their careers as long-term investments in their personal success and performance and are therefore more likely to perform better in the long run. America generally creates its economic and social policies for short-term gains rather than long-term objectives. The results may look good on paper but in reality, Americans suffer from a range of health and quality of life problems that are not as common in Europe. Absenteeism related to workers not being able to afford adequate health care lowers productivity.
The Untied States and Europe can learn from one another to find a middle ground between productivity and quality of life. Labor laws that favor employers allow them...
However, labor laws that favor employees increase job security and encourage commitment to the growth of individual companies and industrial sectors. Ultimately, quality of life is the bottom line, not GDP. A highly productive workforce living in a country with low quality of life factors defeats the purpose of freedom, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Works Cited
Cette, Gilbert. "Are Productivity Levels Higher in Some European Countries than in the United States?" IDEAS. Retrieved April 16, 2009 from http://ideas.repec.org/a/sls/ipmsls/v10y20054.html
The Conference Board. "European Union Shows Productivity Gains, But U.S. Continues To Lead." Retrieved April 17, 2009 from http://www.conference-board.org/UTILITIES/pressDetail.cfm?press_ID=2560
The Economist Intelligence Unit. "The Economist Intelligence Unit's Quality of Life Index." 2005. Retrieved April 17, 2009 from http://www.economist.com/media/pdf/QUALITY_OF_LIFE.PDF
