Brings an interdisciplinary perspective to bear on the economic/business forces stimulating the growth of contingent work as well as the consequences for employers, workers, their families, & society. Much controversy stems from a lack of knowledge about the exact size & characteristics of this workforce, as well as how contingent workers fare economically, socially, & psychologically. Contributions not only provide a picture of the numbers, characteristics, & functions of the contingent workforce, but evaluate the benefits & costs to both employer & worker. The link with labor & employment law is discussed, & suggestions are made for ways contingent workers can gain the same protections given to permanent employees. An Introduction precedes 13 Chpts organized into IV PARTS. 35 Tables, 7 Figures. J. Lindroth