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Perhaps, as a society, we don't need everyone "working" (as in participating in work-for-wages, as opposed to other forms of ad-hoc and uncompensated work). In

Perhaps, as a society, we don't need everyone "working" (as in participating in work-for-wages, as opposed to other forms of ad-hoc and uncompensated work). In fact, the idea that we do is very new - it's only really in the last 60 years or so that women, a good 50% of the working-age population, have entered the workforce. Instead of using involuntary sexism as a basis for shrinking the working population, perhaps building a system in which working several hours 5-7 days a week for a wage is more voluntary would be a good thing and allow the rebuilding of communities and society.

slfnflctd 9y ago
Anecdotally, I have been on the receiving end of 'free' food and shelter from a friend or family member on several occasions (as an adult fully capable of working, but un- or under-employed). The benefits to my mental health were immediate and lasting, which in turn benefited those around me. I had free time and energy to further my education, write songs, produce videos, and try out some business ideas. I was also glad to take up more of the yuckier household chores, so those who were earning more wouldn't have to. In the end, I found that yes, it was easier to be 'more lazy', but that allowing myself to didn't make me happier (more contented, perhaps, but not by much in the long run). I realized I would ultimately be better off bringing in more money doing something that matched well with my higher abilities. As a man, it didn't fully occur to me until I read your comment how closely my experience matched that of housewives of the past-- many of whom, as it turned out, very much wanted to do more sophisticated and lucrative work once they had the chance.