Powderly, in his book "The Plea for Eight Hours," advocates for the adoption of an eight-hour workday as the best solution for addressing labor concerns.
Powderly's stance in "The Plea for Eight Hours" centers on the belief that limiting the workday to eight hours is essential for the well-being of laborers. He contends that extended work hours not only lead to physical and mental exhaustion but also perpetuate unhealthy working conditions and contribute to the exploitation of workers.
By calling for a standard eight-hour workday, he aims to strike a balance between the need for productive labor and the imperative of providing workers with adequate time for rest, personal pursuits and family life.
So, his perspective aligns with the broader historical context of the labor movement's push for improved working conditions and fair treatment of workers.