The Importance of Work in an Age of Uncertainty

Abstract

Abstract This book provides a deeply psychological view of working in America with the intention of transforming existing assumptions and policies about work. At its best, working can provide a powerful sense of aliveness and meaning in our lives; yet, working can also be the source of psychic pain, distress, and despair. The book uses psychological and social science research in conjunction with qualitative analyses of 58 in-depth interviews with adults from across the country who were working or struggling to find work. This book explores the various ways in which working serves to sustain a sense of aliveness, including being able to survive and thrive, connect with others, contribute to something greater than ourselves, be the best we can be, being able to care for others, and being able to work without oppression and harassment. A major conclusion of this book is that the workplace in America is eroding across many dimensions, leaving people feeling untethered and insecure about their futures, with many people feeling anxious and very distressed. Recommendations for individual and community-based adaptations are described along with suggestions for public policy reforms, including efforts to infuse human rights into the workplace, create more sustainable working conditions, and develop supportive structures in society and the economy that allow all people to engage in decent and dignified work.

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