Working For Each Other

A Philosophical Account of the Need for Work
Deryn Thomas challenges the anti-work narrative by showing work not to be an individual need, but a collective one, a social activity that we do together with others, in response to their needs. Recognising this role is key to reimagining the promise of work as part of a good life.
The way we work is radically changing, due to advancements in technology, shifting work norms, changes to the landscape of labour policy, and unprecedented global events, like the Covid-19 pandemic. As the changes have played out with increasing speed and intensity, in public and in private spheres, many have questioned whether work is something we need to do at all. After all, much work has become bad. Many forms of it are physically dangerous, psychologically harmful, dehumanizing, unfulfilling, or just plain bullshit. Much of it is underpaid and unfairly compensated. Many toil for much of their lives in jobs they