Part 2 — When Work Is No Longer Necessary: The Psychological Crisis of a Post-Work Society
Part 2 — When Work Is No Longer Necessary: The Psychological Crisis of a Post-Work Society There may come a time in human history when work is no longer necessary for survival. Today, most people work because they need income. We work to buy food, pay rent or a mortgage, pay electricity bills, educate children, travel, access healthcare and maintain a certain standard of living. But imagine a different world. Imagine a society where technology, automation and artificial intelligence have become so productive that the economy can provide every citizen with the basic necessities of life. Food is guaranteed. A home is guaranteed. Electricity and essential services are guaranteed. Healthcare and education are largely accessible. Every citizen receives a basic income sufficient for a decent standard of living. And perhaps most importantly: Nobody is forced to work merely to survive. At first glance, this appears to be the ultimate victory of civilization. Humanity would finally be free from...