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Looking at it just now, this appears to be the money quote: Given its potential benefits, telecommuting is an attractive option to many. Studies have shown a s

Looking at it just now, this appears to be the money quote: Given its potential benefits, telecommuting is an attractive option to many. Studies have shown a substantial number of workers would even agree to a lower salary for a job that would allow them to work from home. The appeal of remote work can be especially strong during times of crisis, but also exists under more normal circumstances. The ongoing crisis therefore amplifies inequalities when it comes to financial and work-life balance benefits. This seems to be saying that workers often prefer remote work, and perhaps even more so at present. But, they're trading salary away for a work environment they prefer, which (by definition) lowers their monetary compensation, which is bad. Not sure what to make of that.

macinjosh 6y ago
These sort of people see every trade-off or compromise a person might make in life as systemic oppression. If someone decides they don’t mind earning less if they get to work from home that’s their decision! No one is making them do this. No one goes to the car dealership expecting the premium trim for the standard trim price. This is no different. Like it or not we sell our time, attention, and effort in exchange for money. Different types and manner of work are worth different amounts. Our culture (sans pandemic) has begun to place more value on their life than their work so they make choices like this. It is a good thing to let me people do what works best for them.
- downerending 6y ago
  I agree that most of the time, people should be regarded as the final experts on what is best for them. In that context, do-gooders swooping in to "help" can seem rather presumptive. That said, sometimes we as a society do need to "swoop in". The obvious cases would be things like loan sharks, dealers of highly addictive drugs, etc. Right now remote work doesn't seem like one of those cases.

macinjosh 6y ago

These sort of people see every trade-off or compromise a person might make in life as systemic oppression. If someone decides they don’t mind earning less if they get to work from home that’s their decision! No one is making them do this. No one goes to the car dealership expecting the premium trim for the standard trim price. This is no different. Like it or not we sell our time, attention, and effort in exchange for money. Different types and manner of work are worth different amounts. Our culture (sans pandemic) has begun to place more value on their life than their work so they make choices like this. It is a good thing to let me people do what works best for them.

downerending 6y ago
I agree that most of the time, people should be regarded as the final experts on what is best for them. In that context, do-gooders swooping in to "help" can seem rather presumptive. That said, sometimes we as a society do need to "swoop in". The obvious cases would be things like loan sharks, dealers of highly addictive drugs, etc. Right now remote work doesn't seem like one of those cases.