What does precariat mean?
The precariat refers to a social class of people who experience precarious working conditions, limited social benefits, and economic insecurity. This class has emerged in recent years due to changes in the labour market, such as the rise of the gig economy and zero-hours contracts. The precariat often struggles to make ends meet, and their working conditions can be characterized by a lack of stability, predictability, and security. The concept of precariat highlights the challenges faced by workers in the modern economy and has become an important area of study in sociology and economics. Understanding the precariat is essential for developing policies that address income inequality and promote economic stability.
nounA class of people who lack security, predictability, and stability in their work and income, often experiencing precarious working conditions and limited social benefits.
- A social class characterized by precarious work and income
- A group of people experiencing economic insecurity and instability
"The rise of the gig economy has led to an increase in the number of people joining the precariat."
"The precariat often struggles to make ends meet due to irregular working hours and low pay."
"The concept of precariat highlights the challenges faced by workers in the modern economy."
The plural form is used to refer to multiple groups or classes of people experiencing precarious working conditions.
"The precariats of different countries face similar challenges in their struggle for economic stability."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of precariat
The term precariat was coined by sociologist Guy Standing in 2009, derived from the words 'precarious' and 'proletariat'. The concept is rooted in the Latin words 'precarious', meaning 'dependent on the will of another', and 'proletariat', referring to the working class. The precariat has since become a widely used term in academic and sociological contexts to describe the impact of neoliberal economic policies on workers.
Usage notes
The term precariat is often used in academic and sociological contexts to describe the impact of neoliberal economic policies on workers.