How is the labor force generally defined?

The labor force is defined as the number of people who are available and able to work, including both those who are currently employed and those who are unemployed but actively seeking work. This definition emphasizes the active participation of individuals in the job market, distinguishing them from those who are not participating, such as retired individuals, students, or those not seeking employment for other reasons.

This definition is crucial because it focuses on the segment of the population that contributes to the economy's productive capacity. It reflects the total potential workforce available to employers and policymakers for understanding economic conditions. The correct answer highlights the ability and willingness of individuals to work, which is a key aspect in the analysis of labor market dynamics and employment trends.

The other options do not encapsulate this definition accurately. The entire population includes people who are not part of the working-age population or those who are not seeking work. Total employment statistics only count those who are currently employed, while the unemployment rate indicates the proportion of the labor force that is unemployed, not the entire labor force itself.