Derek Thompson, Senior editor at The Atlantic, discusses the future of work, polarization in media, decline of workism, and rise of AI in the workplace. They explore the changing views of work, the intersection of board games and higher ed, and the vibecession. Topics include AI's impact on job creation, personal values over work norms, and finding purpose outside of work.
Younger generations are redefining work values through movements like anti-work and remote work options.
Despite media portrayal, studies show most Americans feel positively about their jobs over time.
Work has become a crucial community where individuals find connections in the midst of declining traditional community structures.
Deep dives
Americans and Work Ethic
Americans are known for their strong work ethic, working more than many other Western countries. While the average hours worked have decreased over time, Americans stll work more than most. This culture of work has contributed to an entrepreneurial spirit and the success of many large companies. However, this focus on work, referred to as workism, can also have negative effects.
Changing Views on Work
Attitudes towards work may be shifting, especially among younger generations like millennials and Gen Z. Movements like anti-work and a rise in remote work options signal a change in how work is perceived. While workism has been prevalent, there is a possibility that newer generations are reevaluating the importance and centrality of work in their lives.
The Complexities of Job Satisfaction
Contrary to popular belief, many Americans are not as unhappy at work as portrayed in headlines. Studies show that most workers feel positively about their jobs, with happiness levels increasing over time. The media's focus on workplace misery may not accurately reflect the general sentiment among workers. Overall, the relationship between individuals and their jobs is nuanced, balancing financial security with personal fulfillment.
Community and Work as the Last Standing Community
Work has become one of the last standing communities where people consistently show up as traditional community structures like churches and organizations have declined. The speaker highlights how the shift to remote work has intensified the role of work as a community. Despite the positive aspects of forming connections at work, there's a concern about work becoming the primary source of identity and community for many individuals.
AI and the Future of Work
The discussion delves into the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on various sectors, particularly focusing on AI's potential in medicine and career development. AI tools are seen as complementing human efforts, especially in explaining complex concepts and possibly reshaping entry-level job roles. The conversation also touches on the historical adaptation to technological changes creating new job opportunities, while acknowledging the unpredictable nature of AI's long-term effects on the workforce.
Join us for a wide-ranging conversation with our guest today, Derek Thompson. We’re big fans of his work so it hardly seems necessary to introduce him, but he’s a senior editor over at The Atlantic where he’s been for 15 years and has since been recognized for his narratives on topics like the future of work and the science of popularity. The latter of which led to the book "Hit Makers," a best-seller that delves into the secret histories of pop culture hits and the dynamics of what makes something popular. Derek also hosts the podcast Plain English, offering weekly insights into the latest news, the things he’s most interested in, and important issues that our society faces today- like the changing views of what work should and shouldn’t be. We also discuss Derek’s craft beer equivalent, the intersection of the board game Ticket To Ride and higher ed, the vibecession, polarization in media, the decline of workism, the rise of AI in the workplace, and more!
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