The book progresses by first establishing a theoretical framework of economic efficiency related to household and industrial labor. It then delves into historical periods, analyzing data from agricultural output to wage labor, with case studies from different regions. Finally, it connects these historical patterns to contemporary issues like the gender pay gap and unequal care work distribution.
By integrating methodologies from econometrics and historical analysis, the book offers a unique perspective on the economic drivers behind labor division, suggesting policy implications for gender equality.