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TED Business

Does working hard really make you a good person? | Azim Shariff

Dec 2, 2024
Azim Shariff, a social psychologist focusing on morality and work, challenges the belief that hard work equates to moral goodness. He discusses how this perception can harm personal and professional lives, promoting a mindset shift towards meaningful productivity. Shariff explores cultural attitudes towards effort and output, revealing the psychological implications of 'workism.' He suggests that we should respect colleagues' time and rethink what really defines our moral worth in the workplace.
18:28

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The societal belief that hard work equates to moral goodness often overlooks the importance of meaningful contributions and actual productivity.
  • Shifting focus from glorifying effort to valuing tangible outcomes could enhance workplace satisfaction and efficiency, combating unhealthy work habits.

Deep dives

The Complexity of Tipping Etiquette

Determining how much to tip has become complex, with increasing expectations for gratuity across various services. The decision often involves personal judgments about the service quality, such as whether the Uber driver was timely or the massage therapist attentive. This reflects a broader cultural shift where tipping is expected in situations that previously did not warrant it, which can lead to confusion and discomfort for many. The challenge lies in navigating when and how much to tip, which raises questions about fairness and the value we place on hard work in different contexts.

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