A wooden furniture manufacturing company in Benin City reorganized its factory floor so that each carpenter performs only one specific task, such as cutting timber, sanding panels, or applying polish. While daily output initially increased, the firm later noticed that workers struggled to adapt when assigned to different woodworking departments or alternative industries. Which of the following represents the primary economic disadvantage illustrated in this scenario?
- Occupational immobility of labor resulting from over-specializationAnswer
- BAn inward shift of the production possibility curve due to resource destruction
- CA rise in variable costs caused by misclassifying fixed factory inputs
- DThe mandatory conversion of a private enterprise into a commercialized public corporation
Answer
Occupational immobility of labor resulting from over-specialization is the primary economic drawback, as workers acquire narrow skills that limit their ability to transition between different job roles or industries.
The correct answer highlights occupational immobility of labor. Extreme division of labor restricts workers to repetitive, single-task operations. Over time, workers lose broad trade competence and acquire rigid skills, making it difficult to transfer to alternative tasks or industries if economic conditions change.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Disadvantages of Division of Labor: Occupational Immobility