Working Life, Technological Developments and Uncertainties from the Ottoman Empire to the Present
Chapter from the book:
Berkün,
S.
(ed.)
2025.
Disadvantaged Groups in Labor Life: Global and Turkish Perspectives on Social Policy.
Synopsis
Throughout human history, production activities have emerged as a fundamental necessity for the sustainability of life. Population growth and the diversification of needs have necessitated the development of production technologies. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century brought about profound transformations in production processes, requiring the redefinition of labor relations and their regulation within a legal framework. Today, this transformation has reached a new dimension with the Fifth Industrial Revolution (Industry 5.0), which emphasizes the collaboration between artificial intelligence and humans. Concepts such as digitalization, automation, data sharing, and cybersecurity have introduced new business models and forms of employment. This study examines the historical development, current state, and future directions of labor relations, focusing particularly on the evolution of working life in Turkey from the Ottoman Empire to the present within a cause-and-effect framework.
