David Weil

David Weil is an American economist and professor at Brown University's School of Public and International Affairs. His research and academic work focus on labor economics, economic inequality, and public policy. Weil is widely recognized for his research on the "fissured workplace," a term he coined to describe how modern business practices have reshaped employment relationships through outsourcing, franchising, and supply chain structures. His book "The Fissured Workplace: Why Work Became So Bad for So Many and What Can Be Done to Improve It" (2014) has become a significant text in labor economics. As a former Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division at the U.S. Department of Labor during the Obama administration, Weil implemented policies affecting wage standards and working conditions. His work has influenced policy discussions on labor standards, workplace regulation, and the changing nature of employment relationships. Weil's contributions extend to academic journals and policy forums, where he addresses topics including minimum wage policy, workplace safety, and the impact of technological change on labor markets. His research has been cited extensively in academic literature and policy debates about the future of work and labor market institutions.

Readers consistently praise Weil's clear explanation of complex labor market changes in "The Fissured Workplace." Many cite his concrete examples of how outsourcing and franchising affect workers' daily lives. What readers liked: - Detailed case studies from recognizable companies - Clear data presentation and evidence - Practical policy recommendations - Accessible writing style for non-economists What readers disliked: - Some sections repeat key points too frequently - Academic tone in certain chapters - Limited discussion of potential solutions - Focus primarily on US labor markets Ratings overview: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (127 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (89 ratings) One reader noted: "Finally understood why my workplace changed so dramatically over 20 years." Another commented: "Great research but needed more concrete solutions for workers caught in these systems." Academic reviewers particularly value the book's comprehensive documentation of employment relationship changes, while general readers appreciate the real-world examples.

A Basic Course in Algebraic Topology (1995) A graduate-level textbook covering fundamental concepts of topology, homology theory, and homotopy theory.

Numbers and Functions: Steps into Analysis (2005) A mathematical text focusing on sequences, continuity, and analysis, bridging the gap between calculus and advanced analysis.

Economic Growth (2005) A comprehensive textbook examining theories and empirical evidence of economic growth across different countries and time periods.

The Reader's Companion to U.S. Women's History (1999) A reference work, co-authored with multiple scholars, covering significant events and figures in American women's history.

The Fissured Workplace: Why Work Became So Bad for So Many and What Can Be Done to Improve It (2014) An analysis of how changes in business practices have affected employment relationships and working conditions.

Fair Labor Standards Act and Its Application to Special Employment Situations (1990) A technical guide explaining labor law regulations and their practical implementation in various workplace scenarios.

Thomas Piketty examines economic inequality and wealth distribution across long historical periods. His data-driven analysis of capital accumulation parallels Weil's focus on economic growth and development.

Daron Acemoglu investigates how institutions shape economic outcomes and development paths. His work on extractive versus inclusive institutions provides frameworks for understanding growth differences between nations.

William Easterly focuses on foreign aid effectiveness and development economics through empirical research. His analysis of why some nations fail to develop despite aid aligns with Weil's examination of growth determinants.

Kenneth Rogoff studies international economics and financial crises through historical data analysis. His research on public debt and financial markets connects with Weil's examination of macroeconomic policy effects.

Paul Collier researches poverty, development, and economic opportunities in low-income countries. His work on conflict's impact on development complements Weil's analysis of growth barriers in developing nations.