Page:American Journal of Sociology Volume 2.djvu/807

 SOME ECONOMIC LOSSES IN THE BUILDING TRADES 79 1

It is evident that when a labor-saving or cheapening inven- tion dispenses to a limited extent with any particular trade or calling, and the essential work remaining is crowded into a cer- tain season, there must be economic waste through intervals of enforced idleness. Although the result may be an immediate lessening of the cost of production, the advantage may subse- quently disappear or be changed into an actual loss through the necessity of remunerating the partially displaced workers for their lost or idle time. When such a situation arises no way at present appears by which the pressure of competition can force labor back to its more productive channels.

S. T. WOOD. TORONTO, CANADA.