Straightening out the backward-bending supply curve of labour: from overt to covert compulsion and beyond

Abstract

The inadequancy of the work-leisure choice model of orthodox theory suggests the need to reexamine the nature of work from the vantage points of anthropology and economic history. Such a reexamination challenges the theory of human behaviour upon which the work-leisure model is built. It suggests that work is not necessarily painful. Moreover, it suggests that more attention needs to be given to the potential for institutional changes which encourage creativity in the workplace.