The Political Orphanage cover image

The Political Orphanage

Fetishizing Jobs

Sep 19, 2024
Guy Standing, author of 'The Politics of Time,' explores how society may be overly fixated on jobs. He critiques GDP as an inadequate economic measure, advocating for recognizing the value of caregiving and unpaid labor. The conversation delves into the pitfalls of rentier capitalism and the need for a comprehensive welfare system. Moreover, Standing proposes replacing charity with systems like Universal Basic Income to ensure economic security for all. He stresses the importance of meaningful engagement over mere job creation in a shifting economic landscape.
01:30:24

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Quick takeaways

  • The distinction between work and labor emphasizes the importance of meaningful engagement and the need for a reevaluation of societal productivity.
  • Critiquing GDP as an economic indicator reveals its inadequacy in recognizing the value of unpaid care work and community contributions.

Deep dives

The Distinction Between Work and Labor

A significant distinction is made between work and labor, tracing it back to ancient Greek concepts. Labor refers to activities performed for others, typically viewed as a burden, while work encompasses actions that enhance relationships and personal fulfillment. This division highlights the historical struggles of common people to assert their right to meaningful work against obligatory labor. Understanding this differentiation can reshape our perception of productivity and societal value, urging a re-evaluation of how we categorize daily activities beyond the mere labor paradigm.

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