Winners and losers: young people in the ‘new economy’

Abstract

Abstract This chapter explores the notion of winners and losers in relation to the changing labour-market situation of young people. It details the impact of labour market changes on various groups of young people though an in-depth study of the youth labour market in a service-based, ‘post-industrial’ city in the south west of England. Research confirms the view of Plug and du Bois-Reymond that the adoption of ‘modern values’ helps young people to deal successfully with the changing labour market. The chapter explains that the prevalence of low wages makes it difficult for young people from all backgrounds to achieve independence. Social, economic, and cultural capital are increasingly important in helping young people grapple with these problems, and class and ethnic divisions are thereby sustained. The chapter discusses the ideology of ‘winners and losers’ and its consequences for social policy.