“The authors of this highly original book use vulnerability theory to critically examine dominant assumptions and discourses regarding the legal regulation of the 'working family' and its socially essential role of caring for dependency in the U.K. In this model of compelling socio-legal scholarship, this history is placed in the context of corresponding legal developments regarding gender equality, employment law, and the welfare state, as well as the rise of the European Union. This beautifully executed book is highly recommended for everyone interested in understanding the dynamic and complex roles of the family, work, and welfare in law and in society.” –
Martha Albertson Fineman, Robert W Woodruff Professor of Law, Emory University
“'Work-Life balance' is one of the great issues of our age. In this magnificent book Nicole Busby and Grace James provide a rich, powerful critique of how the law engages with working families. It highlights the stereotypes which have dominated the legal response and the tensions in the public policy. It is essential reading for lawyers and policy makers on an issue which affects us all.” –
Jonathan Herring, DM Wolfe-Clarendon Fellow in Law, Vice Dean and Professor of Law, Exeter College, University of Oxford
“The History of Regulating Working Families: Strains, Stereotypes, Strategies and Solutions is essential reading for anyone interested in how the law in the UK seeks to accommodate the competing demands of earning a living, typically though employment, and fulfilling unpaid caring responsibilities. Nicole Busby and Grace James's historical approach deftly illustrates how stereotypes of appropriate carers and caring relationships have led to strains and contradictions that the law has sought, too-often unsuccessfully, to manage. Beautifully written and erudite, The History of Regulating Working Families goes beyond critique to offer solutions that avoid the gender, family and lifecycle stereotypes that pervade the law. Deploying a vulnerability approach, Busby and James reimagine the roles of the state, market and the family so that work and care can be organised in ways that are compatible and not conflictual, and that enable individuals, families and communities to flourish.” –
Judy Fudge, LIUNA Enrico Henry Mancinelli Professor of Global Labour Issues, McMaster University