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8 Hours a Day, 5 Days a Week Is Not Working for Us
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8 Hours a Day, 5 Days a Week Is Not Working for Us

Bryce Covert
The New York Times, 2021
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Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Controversial
  • Hot Topic
  • Engaging

Recommendation

While the pandemic brought about various restrictions, work-from-home schedules freed many Americans from time-consuming commutes. However, instead of investing their new-found time in personal pursuits, they worked three hours a day more. Entering the post-pandemic era, employees and employers are now fiercely debating when and whether they’ll return to the office. Economics journalist Bryce Covert is taking the debate a step further, asking not only whether employers should be allowed to dictate when and where their employees work, but suggesting they shouldn’t say how much employees should work, either.

Take-Aways

  • American professionals are working more hours than ever, which negatively affects their health and well-being.
  • Some countries and companies are moving away from the five-day workweek, with no loss in productivity.
  • The post-pandemic era presents an opportunity for Americans to rethink work hours and possibly reduce employment disparities.

About the Author

Bryce Covert is an independent journalist covering the economy. Her work has appeared in The Nation, The Intercept, and The New York Times.

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