Bertrand Russell - In Praise of Idleness

[ajseph 21]

In this audio recording british philosopher Bertrand Russell deals with our obsession with work or shall I say overwork in the modern world. Ever wonder why work ( in the get a job sense of the term ) is so glorified? Well Russell deals with the question in an astounding way IMHO linking it with the ruling class and the "bestowal" of work ethic. Very enjoyable listening, but the voice is mechanical so listen carefully.
Part 1 http://youtu.be/vceIV4Arpmg
Part 2 http://youtu.be/923RWjXJwik
Part 3 http://youtu.be/bTKc7L8vcUY
Part 4 http://youtu.be/qxfEjMHTtKk

 

[theos]

Thanks for sharing this, asjeph. Russell makes some very good points throughout. If people weren't so exhausted by overwork they would have time to engage in some creative activity, educate themselves and be kinder to one another. I'm sure this is exactly why the "work ethic" was emphasized by the working class. Moreover, if you're nerves are so frayed from overwork you're too distracted to notice what the man behind the curtain is up to.