This article worries about the decline of manufacturing jobs in US and the shift to services. Indeed, it seems like the manufacturing is the real meat of the economy, while services are just the creaming on top.
But you forgot one important detail – this year (2005) the overall manufacturing output is approximately at the all-time high number, despite fewer jobs. Robots, computers, logistics and other factors are improving productivity and let make more goods with less people.
You certainly are not a luddite to suggest to destroy machines and do more by hands? Good. Moreover, manufacturing is burning natural resources and reducing the time left for us on the earth. But services are usually improving the life without destroying the nature. I feel better that way.
November 16, 2006 at 9:43 am
Remove Manufacturing and you remove a value that separates us from the civilized world. technological advances mean little if you can not afford to part take of them. Basically you depend on others to make things leaving you vunerable and less skilled or able. We are left with little having outsourced our abilites to be functional.
Vote For A Change Vote To Bring Back Manufacturing Vote A Democrat For President In 2008
February 7, 2007 at 4:17 pm
Even though manufacturing is at an all time high, the real problem is with fewer jobs here in America and more going overseas. This is what erodes the middleclass in America and more strongly polarizes the “haves” and the “have nots”.
What I don’t see from the Dems (or the Republicans for that matter either)is a plan to stop the loss of manufacturing jobs to offshore facilities. If someone knows what democrat or republican presidential candidate is making this a mainstream issue please tell me who it is.