ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 outlined the segregated and segmented nature of labour markets. We also showed that employment segregation produces and reinforces inequalities, disadvantage and discrimination. This chapter aims to present a brief outline of the various theoretical explanations for the employment patterns and gaps described in Chapter 2. It explores theories from the perspective of both employers (demand side) and employees (supply side) and critically appraises their ability to offer explanations for labour market inequalities and disadvantage. For utility, a distinction is made between economic and sociological theories. It should be recognized that these overlap and interconnect, but the distinction provides a useful classificatory tool for the purpose of analysis.
