What is the Difference Between Fordism and Post Fordism?

Fordism and Post-Fordism are two different economic and social systems related to production and consumption. The key differences between them are:

1. Mass Production vs. Flexible Specialization: Fordism refers to the large-scale mass production pioneered by Henry Ford in the early 20th century, whereas Post-Fordism refers to flexible specialized production.
2. Skilled vs. Unskilled Labor: Under Fordism, comprehensive training and skills were not important, as it relied on intensively using unskilled labor. In contrast, Post-Fordism requires more flexible and skilled workers to adapt to its concept.
3. Market Control vs. Market Flexibility: Fordist production had control over the market, while Post-Fordism adapted to changing market conditions with flexible production.
4. Full-Time Employment vs. Part-Time or Temporary Employment: Fordism promoted full-time employment, while Post-Fordism shifted towards part-time or temporary employment, with more flexible and market-friendly forms of economic and social governance.
5. Different Responses to Economic Changes: Fordism fell out of use during the 1970s due to slower economic growth and increasing income inequality. In response, the system of organization of production and consumption transformed into Post-Fordism, which promised a second burst of economic growth.

In summary, Fordism is characterized by large-scale mass production, unskilled labor, and full-time employment, while Post-Fordism is marked by flexible specialized production, skilled labor, and part-time or temporary employment. Both concepts aimed to achieve sustainable economic growth and cater to consumer needs, but they differed in their approaches and responses to economic changes.

Comparative Table: Fordism vs Post Fordism

Here is a table comparing Fordism and Post-Fordism:

Fordism refers to the system of mass production and consumption, pioneered by Henry Ford, and characterized by assembly line techniques and deskilled workers for assembly line tasks. It led to sustained economic growth and widespread social benefits. On the other hand, Post-Fordism is a concept that emphasizes flexible specialized production, requiring more flexible and skilled workers, and a focus on niche markets and customization. It is also associated with more market-friendly forms of economic and social governance.