Question

Describe and analyze Lawless’ experiences using the relevant anthropological terminology and focusing on the following points:

- Nickel and Dimed takes place in 1998-2000, a time of unprecedented prosperity in America. What are some of the things that have changed in the way the economy works since then and what are some things that in your opinion are still the same?
- The coronavirus epidemic has had many effects on the ways Americans live and work. Describe some of the main economic effects of the epidemic so far on ALL socio-economic classes in this country (i.e. working poor, working class, middle class, upper class)? Have all these socioeconomic groups suffered the same? What in your opinion explains your findings?
- What do you think will be some long term effects of the coronavirus pandemic, even after it is over, in the way Americans live and work?

Answer 1

Barbara Ehrenreich's 'Nickel and Dimed' explores the difficulties of living on minimum wage during America's late '90s boom, issues still relevant today, especially amidst widened income inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected different socio-economic classes, with long-term implications like remote work and healthcare system reevaluation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Journalist Barbara Ehrenreich's book Nickel and Dimed, offers an in-depth look into the challenges faced by individuals living on a minimum wage in America between 1998 and 2000, a period of significant economic prosperity. However, these conditions still persist today, despite the changes in the economy. Notably, income inequality has widened, and many of the economic benefits since 1980 have not trickled down to average Americans. Rising healthcare costs and a shift away from manufacturing jobs have exacerbated the difficulties for the working poor.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further spotlighted the economic disparities across socio-economic classes. While the working poor and working class have suffered from job losses, reduced hours, and health risks due to their frontline positions, the middle, upper-middle, and upper classes have experienced a mix of remote working possibilities and increased savings for some. However, they are not immune to the challenges such as market volatility and shifts in the job market.

In the long run, the coronavirus pandemic may lead to lasting changes in the way Americans live and work, including greater adoption of remote work, increased focus on healthcare and social safety nets, and potentially a re-evaluation of the value of essential workers. The experience has highlighted critical areas in American society that require systemic change to ensure better resilience in the face of future crises.