The Concept of Work

This week's readings explore the ways in which we think about and define work and the working life. Follow the links or attached PDF's to read the following items.

●     “Life Without Principle” by Henry David Thoreau (1863)

●     “Digging” by Seamus Heaney (1966)

●     “To Be of Use” by Marge Piercy (1973)

●     “What Work Is” by Philip Levine (1991)

●      "A Clean Well-Lighted Place" by Ernest Hemingway (1933)

●      "Seven Conceptualizations of Work"

●     "Seven Conceptualizations of Work" - Alternative Formats  adapted from writings by John Budd (2010)

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You might need to explore these authors a bit to understand the context in which they wrote to craft your Week 2 Assignment. While it is encouraged that you look into the background of the authors, be sure you are using robust and trustworthy sources. You must cite any concepts from outside work that you weave into your weekly assignment according to MLA standards.

Remember to use your own words and analysis - do not rely on the analysis within a websearch- we are all here to enhance the abilities of your own mind and increase your own thinking skills- now is the time to practice and improve!

In addition to the above, please read this summary of John Budd's “Seven Conceptualizations of Work” (2010).

Budd labels seven conceptualizations of work. He makes use of some views by Karl Marx as a point of comparison. Marx saw the worker as in a constant state of strife as the means of production, alienated as a commodity. As we start to look at particular worlds and time periods of work this week and in the weeks to come, let us see how some of these conceptualizations line up with the stories, poems, and plays we will encounter.

Definition of Work

First, Budd defines work as “purposeful human activity involving physical or mental exertion that is not undertaken solely for pleasure and that has economic value” (2). When he mentions “economic value,” he is quick to disclaim that the “value” doesn’t mean it has to be done for money; for instance, caring for one’s family.

Work as Commodity

What Marx viewed as “labor power.” Work is seen through the impersonal laws of supply and demand and viewed for economic value. As Marx posited, the potential is great for the alienation of the worker.

Work as Occupational Citizenship

Work is undertaken by citizens of inherent equal worth and include standards of dignity and self-determination. A bargained relationship exists between employee and employer.

Work as Disutility

Work is viewed as stressful and painful. It takes away from leisure, which is more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Work as Personal Fulfillment

Work is directed by the brain, cognitively and emotionally. Attitudes and moods can impact one’s mental state in regard to work. Work can satisfy our human needs for achievement, self-esteem, and self-worth.

Work as Social Relations

Work consists of human interactions. It is shaped by social networks, institutions, and norms as socially-constructed relations. Marx notes the potential for power struggle.

Work as Caring for Others

Feminist scholarship has helped to highlight what has been traditionally viewed as “women’s work.” In reality, caring for others requires physical, cognitive, and emotional effort.

Work as Identity

Work is viewed as a source of meaning and understanding. This shapes us as part of our species, our social standing, our race and ethnicity, our gender and sexuality, and our personal lives. Self-directed work is essential. This is contrasted with work as a commodity and the alienation that Marx feared for workers.

Adapted from Budd, John W. Theorizing Work: The Importance of Conceptualizations of Work for Research and Practice. Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies. Presentation at the 25th Cardiff Employment Research Unit Annual Conference, Sep 13-14, 2010. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota.

This week, we are exploring views on work from history and various writers.

●     In 1-2 pages [275-550 words, double-spaced], discuss at least two of the readings from this week and how they compare/contrast with your own views on work and/or the views of work that are shared by people in our modern culture.

●     Be specific; refer to the works by title and author (if applicable) and include passages or quotes that support your ideas.

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