Fordism and modernity: Ritzer and Bauman, Ritzer and me

This contribution to the Thesis Eleven Festschrift for George Ritzer works on two different themes or levels of engagement and appreciation. First, I revisit Ritzer's McDonaldization thesis with reference to Bauman's in Modernity and the Holocaust. In this article I am concerned to draw special attention to the theme of Fordism, which I argue is central to both thinkers, and, indeed, central to modernity and modern times. Second, I narrate the more personal dimension of my relationship with George, which became a highly productive working relationship alongside an intellectual relationship of mutual respect and inspiration.