The importance of the recognition of the diverse composition of the working class: reflections from the electronics industry

Abstract

This article seeks, through data and discussions about the contemporary composition of the working class, to point out some ways to a gendered reflection about the condition of the Brazilian worker and the perception of their own work. It is claimed the need for recognition of the heterogeneous composition of the working class and seeks to identify the contributions that this perception brings to the analysis of the sociology of work. The analysis is made under sexual division of labour theory. Part of the reflection is based on the study of two transnational companies sector in the metallurgical industry, that manufactures cellphones and other computer equipment manufacturers, with productive plants located in Brazil. The electronics sector is relevant observation point because it employs mostly female workers, enabling a counterpoint to studies on male-dominated sectors in their workforce, such as automotive or chemical.