Do we work too much?

Summary

In this insightful video, Andres Acevedo reflects on his four-year journey as a self-employed lawyer, contrasting his initial excitement with the realities of a traditional work schedule. He delves into the historical evolution of work ethics, highlighting the shift from a traditional approach focused on survival to the Protestant work ethic, which emphasizes continuous labor toward a personal calling. Acevedo critiques the societal obsession with work and consumption, advocating for a reevaluation of these norms to achieve a more fulfilling life aligned with the ancient idea of 'eudaimonia' or flourishing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Andres Acevedo reflects on his journey from traditional law to self-employment, highlighting initial excitement and nervousness.
• 🕒 He questions his work ethic as a self-employed lawyer, noting that he follows a traditional 9-to-5 schedule.
• 🔍 The script explores the origins of work ethic, tracing back to hunter-gatherer societies where work was a means of survival.
• 📜 Historical figures like Aristotle viewed work primarily as a means to achieve 'eudaimonia' (flourishing) rather than an end in itself.
• ✝️ The Protestant work ethic emerged in the 1500s, shifting the perception of work from a necessity to a moral obligation.
• 📈 This new work ethic led to a cultural obsession with hard work, impacting both personal and societal values.
• 🛠️ Technology is likened to modern-day slaves, yet society continues to cling to traditional work practices instead of leveraging advancements.
• 📊 The prevalence of the work ethic is evident in political agendas, with a focus on job creation across different sectors.
• 🔄 Acevedo suggests that the Protestant work ethic may no longer serve individuals or society and proposes a need for a new paradigm.
• 📚 The video draws inspiration from books like 'The Pathless Path' and 'Labor Society', encouraging viewers to reconsider their relationship with work.

Q & A

What prompted the speaker to leave their traditional law firm career?

The speaker was motivated by the desire for greater control over their time and the opportunity to become their own boss.

How did the speaker's expectations of self-employment compare to their reality?

Despite expecting a flexible work life, the speaker ended up following a traditional work schedule, working Monday through Friday for at least 8 hours each day.

What inner conflicts did the speaker experience as their own boss?

The speaker was hard on themselves, feeling criticism and guilt whenever they deviated from their self-imposed work schedule.

What historical context does the speaker provide regarding the work ethic?

The speaker discusses how humans traditionally lived as hunter-gatherers, leading to a work ethic focused on survival, where work was done only as needed.

What philosophical concept did Aristotle associate with work?

Aristotle viewed work primarily as a means to an end, suggesting that the true purpose of life is 'Eudaimonia' or flourishing, which transcends mere economic activity.

What significant shift in work ethic occurred in the 1500s?

The Protestant Reformation introduced the idea that work is a personal calling and that individuals should work hard towards this calling, regardless of their financial needs.

How does the Protestant work ethic impact modern society?

The Protestant work ethic has led to a culture where work is seen as an ongoing duty and is often leveraged by corporations to encourage consumerism and continuous work.

What critique does the speaker make about modern work ethics?

The speaker believes that the current Protestant work ethic is no longer serving them or society, advocating for a reevaluation of how we perceive and engage in work.

What comparison does the speaker make between ancient labor and modern technology?

The speaker compares modern machines and technology to 'slaves,' suggesting that society should utilize these advancements to achieve greater fulfillment rather than adhering to outdated work ethics.

What resources did the speaker reference for their ideas?

The speaker was inspired by the books 'The Pathless Path' by Paul Millard and 'The Labor Society' by Roland Paulsen, which explore similar themes of work and fulfillment.