Women’s Life Cycle and Economic Insecurity: Problems and Proposals

According to a global United Nations study, women perform 66% of all work, but receive only 10% of all income and own less than 1% in material assets. Although the economic status of American women has been somewhat higher than that of women globally, it is increasingly apparent that the United States is facing the emerging social problem of women’s economic insecurity in the midst of growing affluence. In this study, 10 experts methodically survey every vital aspect in the life of American women, from early sex-role socialization in the home to long-term elderly care, and examine their economic implications. Ozawa’s introductory chapter provides an overview of the subject; her concluding chapter summarizes recommendations for change and proposes steps necessary to the establishment of economic and social equality between the sexes.