The Gray Area with Sean Illing A pro-worker work ethic
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Jan 15, 2024 Elizabeth Anderson, a public philosophy professor at the University of Michigan and author of "Hijacked," delves into the pitfalls of the Protestant work ethic. She discusses how this outdated mindset links our worth to hard work and profits, perpetuating inequalities. Anderson critiques neoliberal policies favoring profit over dignity and advocates for a pro-worker ethic that prioritizes worker rights. She emphasizes the need for equitable workplaces, community value, and a shift away from the relentless grind toward meaningful work.
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Protestant Work Ethic Origins
- The Protestant work ethic originated with Puritans seeking assurance of salvation.
- Hard work and frugality were seen as signs of God's grace and faith.
Puritan Motivation
- Puritans prioritized hard work, not for economic gain, but for religious reasons.
- They believed it demonstrated God's favor and increased their chances of salvation.
Industrial Revolution's Impact
- The Industrial Revolution split workers from capital ownership, creating conflicting work ethics.
- The original work ethic assumed workers would share in their labor's fruits, unlike the new reality.
