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Fuck work

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Fuck work

Economists believe in full employment. Americans think that work builds character. But what if jobs aren’t working anymore?

Aeon,

5 min read
5 take-aways
Audio & text

What's inside?

If work doesn’t define you anymore, what will?

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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Controversial
  • Engaging
  • Inspiring

Recommendation

American politicians across the political spectrum agree at least on one thing: the need to restore “full employment.” Economic historian James Livingston posits that this is both unrealistic and uncalled-for. Writing for the online magazine Aeon, he argues that the obsession with work prevents Americans from facing the realities of the 21st-century labor market and from finding a new purpose in life that doesn’t revolve around their jobs. getAbstract recommends this stirring critique of American work culture as an upper for the unemployed and food for thought for workaholics. And by the way, Livingston’s writing style is more refined than his essay’s title might suggest.

Summary

Most Americans define themselves through work. It provides a daily structure, an income and a sense of self-worth. And it supposedly builds character. But Americans’ belief in this work ethic doesn’t match the realities of the 21st-century labor market. First, there isn’t enough work for everyone. No net jobs have been created in the United States since the year 2000. Additionally, per one estimate, up to half of all existing jobs may disappear due to automation by 2035. The notion that federal policies can restore full employment...

About the Author

James Livingston is history professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey. His latest book is No More Work: Why Full Employment is a Bad Idea.


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