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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Labor of Love summary
Moira Weigel
The Invention of Dating
14 mins
Brief summary
Labor of Love by Moira Weigel explores the history and evolution of dating in the 20th century. It delves into the cultural and economic factors that shaped our understanding of romantic love and the role gender plays in modern relationships.
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Labor of Love
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Key idea 1 of 6
The influx of women into cities during the Industrial Revolution transformed courtship in America.
The world of dating is much different than the one in which your parents met. Do you know why?
Well, economics certainly played a part. To understand this better, let’s wander back briefly in history to the Industrial Revolution, an event that transformed courtship among the working and middle classes.
Before the late nineteenth century, “dating” as we know it now wasn’t really a thing. Instead, matchmaking was controlled by one’s parents or other relatives. In the 1880s, however, the industrial boom led to an increased need for labor, and many young women moved to cities to work in factories, in shops as salespeople, or as servants. This influx of female workers transformed life in the city. Suddenly, city dwellers could witness a previously rare sight – men and women spending time together in public spaces, even kissing in parks and secluded alleyways.
Couples showed affection in public mainly because they had nowhere else to go. Apartments were small and crowded, leaving little room for privacy; workers on limited incomes couldn’t afford an evening at the theater or other places of entertainment.
In contrast, society’s expanding middle class, built with the new wealth from industrialization, could “call” on each other. This popular method of courtship basically had men competing for the favors of women by visiting them at home.
If a man was interested in a particular woman, he’d show up at her home and knock on her front door. A servant would usually answer and take the man’s name and inform the woman of the “caller.” If the woman was interested in the caller, he’d be invited inside. The pair could then talk, sing and enjoy each other’s company for a time, yet always under supervision.
Such a private ritual reflected the wealth of the growing middle classes. Unlike workers who had to steal time in the shadows in public, wealthier individuals could meet suitors in private.
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What is Labor of Love about?
Labor of Love (2016) is your guide to the history of dating. These blinks walk you through the social, cultural and economic shifts that have shaped modern rituals of courtship and explain the curious fads and fashions of flirtation that have come and gone through the ages.
Labor of Love Review
Labor of Love (2016) explores the history and culture of dating, providing a thought-provoking analysis of how romance intersects with capitalism. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers fascinating insights into the evolution of dating, examining how economic systems have influenced our quest for love and connection.
- With its examination of gender dynamics and societal expectations, the book sparks important conversations about relationships and the complexities of modern romance.
- The author's research, interviews, and personal experiences create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged, ensuring that the book is far from boring.
Who should read Labor of Love?
- People who love to flirt or are serial daters
- Students of psychology or the social sciences
- Anyone who uses Tinder
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Labor of Love FAQs
What is the main message of Labor of Love?
Labor of Love examines the history and sociology of dating, revealing how it has been shaped by economic, social, and cultural forces.
How long does it take to read Labor of Love?
Labor of Love can be read in a few hours, while the Blinkist summary will take just 15 minutes.
Is Labor of Love a good book? Is it worth reading?
Labor of Love is a fascinating exploration of how dating has evolved over time, offering valuable insights to readers interested in relationships and society.
Who is the author of Labor of Love?
Moira Weigel is the author of Labor of Love.
What to read after Labor of Love?
If you're wondering what to read next after Labor of Love, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- I Didn't Know I Needed This by Eli Rallo
- Sizing People Up by Robin Dreeke and Cameron Stauth
- Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller
- The Curious History of Dating by Nichi Hodgson
- Sex at Dawn by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá
- The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman