I was horrified when I read this book. I never truly understood how degrading and miserable the lives of the working class were. Now, however, I finally understand clearly why working class members are so miserable on the job;
wages are the problem. Yet they do not rebel against their managers because they are so desperate for money. Also, I cannot begin to imagine how I could enjoy my life living on $6 an hour wages (below the minimum wage). This means that I must eat only very simple foods, such as grains, and cannot eat much meat. I also will not be able to support a family or take vacations because I will have to spend all my money on necessities. I would hate living from paycheck to paycheck because I would not like to be dependent solely on my job. If for some reason I lose my job, I could easily go bankrupt. Due to this plain, mundane, impoverished lifestyle, I am motivated even more (I am already!) to excel in school, enter college, and find a job that pays well so I can continue to live the affluent, relaxing life I live now.
In addition, one profession mentioned in this book that provoked sympathy from me was maid service. Maids have always been busy executing chores, but not in the way Ehrenreich witnessed. One cleaning procedure most appalling to me was when they had to get down on their hands and knees and scrub the carpet/floor. This is such a dehumanizing action that I cannot stand for this.
I would highly recommend this book to any fascinated reader with an interest in the workings of America's socioeconomic system. The reader can learn so many fascinating secrets on the workings of our economy. Ultimately though, the question
Nickel and Dimed answers is this: Is Barbara Ehrenreich truly a working class citizen, or is she a "spy" from the more affluent class on a mission to uncover the harshness of working class life?
