Work used to be tied to survival from "summary" of Work by James Suzman
In the not-so-distant past, work was not just a means to earn money or achieve personal fulfillment - it was a fundamental necessity for survival. Our ancestors relied on their labor to secure food, shelter, and other basic needs essential to their existence. The concept of work was intimately intertwined with the imperative of staying alive. For hunter-gatherer societies, work revolved around finding and processing food. Every action, from hunting game to gathering edible plants, was driven by the need to ensure the community's sustenance. The division of labor was based on age, gender, and skill, with everyone contributing in some way to the group's survival. There was no distinction between work and leisure; every activity had a purpose and a direct impact on the group's well-being. As societies evolved and agriculture took root, the nature of work changed but remained tied to survival. Farming became the primary occupation, with individuals laboring to cultivate crops and raise livestock. The success of a harvest determined whether a community would thrive or perish. Work was no longer just about sustenance; it was about prosperity and security for future generations. With the advent of industrialization, work underwent another transformation, shifting from agrarian to industrial labor. The rise of factories and mass production introduced new forms of work that were still linked to survival, albeit in a different way. People worked to earn wages to buy goods and services that would enhance their quality of life and ensure their well-being. The connection between work and survival persisted, but the means of achieving it had evolved. Fast forward to the present day, and the link between work and survival has become more complex. In a globalized, digital economy, work is no longer just about meeting basic needs; it is also about personal fulfillment, social status, and economic mobility. The concept of work has expanded to encompass a wide range of activities, from creative pursuits to service-oriented professions. Despite these changes, the fundamental connection between work and survival remains a powerful force in our lives. Whether we are working to put food on the table, secure a comfortable lifestyle, or pursue our passions, the underlying motivation is often rooted in the primal instinct to survive and thrive. Work may have taken on new meanings and forms, but its essential purpose - to ensure our well-being and that of our communities - remains as relevant today as it was in the past.
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