Analysis: A World Without Work

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Introduction: In 2011, famous American psychologist, Marsha Linehan, removed herself from solitude and spoke out about her struggle with a mental illness, expressing feelings of “being in hell” and memories of being in an institute of living at age seventeen. Although psychologists and mental health experts seem to be one of the strongest assets to society in a mental aspect, they tend to struggle with mental illness more than the general population. Linehan 's confession, was a shock to many, and it should come as a surprise that she is one of many mental health professionals that lives with a mental illness. Although psychologists struggle with mental health issues more than the general population, it may be helpful to their profession. In …show more content…

It is hard for an individual to be compelled to serve others if they feel there is no reason for them. In the Address to the Nation on Labor Day, President Nixon expresses the idea that “The dignity of work, the value of achievement, the morality of self-reliance-none of these is going out of style.” This quote shows Nixon’s belief in the necessity of work and self worth. In contrasting opinion, Derek Thompson, the author of “A World Without Work” expresses the overarching concept that work will no longer be necessary due to the constant evolution of technology. Assessing the potential of a world without work comes to show that in a society where there is a minimal demand for duties, there will be a minimal desire for effort. Mental health plays a very significant role in this concept; those in the mental health profession who suffer from mental illness themselves, could feel they have more to offer than a psychologist without a mental illness. Mental illness becomes easier to understand, and work with, if one has directly experienced its predictable traits. As earlier stated, when an individual feels their contributions are necessary, they are more likely to exert more effort, whereas if they feel they are not needed, the less effort they will put forth in their profession. In the future, if there is little to no labor force, those who work in a …show more content…

When discussing communication therapy, engagement is especially important. Mentally ill people need someone who is helpful, friendly, and engaged. Luckily, psychologists with a mental illness are more likely to easily understand what is going on with their clients, thus they are more engaged. According to GALLUP, a research based, global performance-management consulting company, “Seventy-one percent of American workers are "not engaged" or "actively disengaged" in their work, meaning they are emotionally disconnected from their workplaces and are less likely to be productive.” As earlier stated, when an individual is a part of a specific field, but feels little to no passion for that field, they are less likely to put forth an appropriate amount of effort. GALLUP also stated that “That leaves nearly one-third of American workers who are "engaged," or involved in and enthusiastic about their work and contributing to their organizations in a positive manner.” Historical evidence has shown that individuals who are more engaged in their careers, tend to be more successful, and happier too. An article written by Corinne Mills, in 2013 expresses the idea that in order for individuals to maintain success within their jobs, they must choose to continue their education, and ensure they understand what they are doing, to the full extent.