Useful Work versus Useless Toil
Useful Work versus Useless Toil
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Brief
Beta94
Book • Nonfiction
England • 19th century
2008
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In his lecture, "Useful Work versus Useless Toil," William Morris argues for the dignity and fulfillment of useful work over labor that is dreary and exploitative. Morris advocates for societal changes that value craftsmanship and creativity, believing that meaningful work enhances individual well-being and societal progress. He envisions a future where joy and purpose permeate all labor.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
502 ratings
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Review Roundup
William Morris's Useful Work versus Useless Toil explores the dignity of labor and critiques the capitalist system. Reviewers appreciate its insightful social commentary and its relevance to contemporary work-life debates. However, some find it idealistic and lacking in practical solutions. Overall, it's praised for its thought-provoking argument about finding fulfillment in meaningful work.
Who Should Read Useful Work versus Useless Toil?
Fans of social criticism and labor theory, like readers of Karl Marx's Das Kapital or John Ruskin's Unto This Last, will appreciate Morris's critique of industrial work and his vision for meaningful labor in Useful Work versus Useless Toil. Ideal for those seeking a historical perspective on work ethics.
502 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
94
Book • Nonfiction
England • 19th century
2008
Adult
18+ years
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