fordizm

Fordism refers to a system of mass production and consumption that was pioneered by Henry Ford. It is characterized by the introduction of assembly line techniques, which dramatically increased the speed and efficiency of manufacturing. This allowed for the production of goods, most famously automobiles, on an unprecedented scale. A key component of Fordism was the payment of relatively high wages to workers, allowing them to afford the very products they were helping to create. This created a virtuous cycle of production and consumption, boosting both industrial output and consumer demand.

The assembly line, a central innovation of Fordism, broke down complex production processes into a series of simple, repetitive tasks performed by individual workers. This specialization led to significant increases in productivity and a reduction in manufacturing costs. Ford's Highland Park plant, opened in 1913, is often cited as the archetypal Fordist factory. The impact of Fordism extended beyond the factory floor, influencing urban planning, labor relations, and the broader development of industrial economies throughout the 20th century. While its dominance has waned with the rise of post-Fordist production methods, its legacy in shaping modern manufacturing and consumer society remains significant.