Episode 191: An Apology For Idlers

January 31, 2022

Central Thesis

Ad-supported media is part of a larger societal problem that glorifies relentless work and denigrates idleness, leading to alienation, despair, and a reinforcement of existing class structures. It's a system rigged for the wealthy to exploit the striving middle class, pushing them to burnout while ultimately serving the interests of the modern-day "Bertie Woosters."

Key Arguments

• The Glorification of Work is Destructive Jim argues that society, mirroring Victorian values, overemphasizes productivity and relentless labor, leading to personal and societal harm. He uses Stevenson's "An Apology for Idlers" to champion the value of idleness for thoughtful contemplation and genuine experience, contrasting this with the "stupid trance" of screen-addicted workers.

• Meritocracy is a Trap He critiques Daniel Markovits' "The Meritocracy Trap," claiming the pursuit of meritocratic success creates "super-ordinate workers" perpetually striving and sacrificing, ultimately benefiting the wealthy elite who own the businesses they serve. This system fosters a hyper-competitive environment that fuels anxiety and despair, particularly among those who don't "succeed" in the system.

• Class Structures Persist Jim asserts the idea that the true "Woosters," the wealthy elite, still exist and profit from the labor of the striving middle class. These elites benefit from a rigged system, exemplified by elite colleges essentially operating as tax shelters.

• There Are Solutions Jim hints at solutions based on Markovits' suggestions, including tax reforms related to elite colleges and changes to labor practices. He emphasizes that individuals can reject the "superordinate worker" mentality by learning how to "do nothing without starving," suggesting a path towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Notable Passages

• "If they have to wait an hour or so for a train, they fall into a stupid trance with their eyes open, staring at a screen."
• "These super-ordinate workers Markovits valorizes are the very people Stevenson pointed to standing on the platform waiting for a train in a stupid trance with their eyes open."
• "Those professors don't know which of the people in their big lecture halls is related to somebody who can pick up the phone and make their professorial lives shit."
• "People of all pursuits combine to disparage those who have none."

Rhetorical Approach

Jim uses a combination of literary analysis (Stevenson, Wodehouse, Austen), sociological critique (Markovits, Lehman), and personal anecdotes to construct his argument. He employs sarcasm and blunt language to convey his disdain for the hyper-competitive work culture. Historical examples are used to draw parallels between Victorian society and contemporary issues. Anecdotes from family are used to add authority.

Connections

• References Jenny O'Dell's "How to Do Nothing."
• References Episode 41, "Self-Evident as Mud," concerning social structures in Western culture.
• References KMO's Sea Realm Vault podcast and his Christmas Day interview on Markovits' book.
• References David Graber's essay on "bullshit jobs."