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Why Do Americans Still Work Long Hours?

January 15, 2019 By Dr. Kate Jurow

In 1870 the average European worked 66 hours/week. In the US, we averaged 62. By 1929 the European and American work weeks were pretty much the same: Europeans worked 47.8 hours/week, and Americans 48. But by 2000, according to an article in The Economist magazine,  Americans had pulled  ahead, working 4 hours more  per week.

As the article cites, those extra hours don’t necessarily lead to increased productivity.  A 2013 study pointed to a negative correlation between productivity and hours worked. Long hours, other studies suggest, lead to exhaustion, poor focus, health problems, and decreased productivity.

Employers – who in the U.S. largely dictate these terms – are supposedly trying to increase productivity in order to compete in global markets. So why are they pushing long hours?

  • The Economist: Americans need to take a break

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Why Do Americans Still Work Long Hours?

In 1870 the average European worked 66 hours/week. In the US, we averaged 62. By 1929 the European and American work weeks were pretty much the same: Europeans worked 47.8 hours/week, and Americans … [Read More...] about Why Do Americans Still Work Long Hours?

Founder Phil Hyde

Phil Hyde

A self-described “Renaissance man,” Phil Hyde was born in Canada. He received his bachelor’s degree in ancient languages and Near-Eastern Studies from the University of Toronto, and a master’s degree … [Read more...] about Phil Hyde

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