Work addiction

Workaholism
Workaholics
Ergomania
Performative workaholism

Nature

When work becomes an obsession, compulsive behaviours develop that can be harmful and even death-producing. As in hoarding money, gambling, sex or any other process addiction, the act itself (working) loses its intrinsic meaning. Although the line between simple overwork and an unhealthy addiction to work is tenuous, it is fairly easy to tell when one has crossed it. The workaholic uses work to avoid dealing with inner and interpersonal life.

Background

During the Middle Ages in England, peasants could work just 150 days a year. Until relatively recently, work was seen as painful toil, and best avoided. But something changed in the 16th century – we started to think that work was morally good.

Claim

Work has historically been viewed as a tedious necessity. But our obsession with work shows how a neoliberal philosophy has crept into every facet of our lives.

Too much work can be toxic. Working very long hours can lead to problems such as depression, anxiety and addiction and can cut us off from friends and family. A job loss can then become a deep existential crisis.

Counter-claim

No one ever changed the world on 40 hours a week. (Elon Musk)

Not working can make us miserable. People who work tend to be healthier. Work can give us a sense of purpose and meaning. It connects us with other people.