Why Do We Work?

The video explores the question of why we work, emphasizing that work should be meaningful and not just for material rewards. It discusses the impact of 'idea technology' on shaping our understanding of work and human nature. The speaker critiques the industrial revolution's influence on work environments, driven by false ideas about human nature, particularly those of Adam Smith. The video concludes by highlighting the role of institutions in designing human nature and challenges viewers to consider the kind of human nature they want to help design.

What is the primary question the speaker aims to address in the talk?

• How to achieve work-life balance

• Why do we work?

• How to increase productivity at work

• What are the benefits of automation?

According to the speaker, what is a bad reason for doing the work we do?

• Intellectual challenge

• Social recognition

• Material rewards

• Personal growth

What does the speaker identify as the reason for monotonous and meaningless work for many people?

• Capitalism

• Lack of education

• Government policies

• Technology

What term does the speaker use to describe the influence of ideas on our understanding of work and human nature?

• Philosophical technology

• Idea technology

• Cognitive technology

• Conceptual technology

How do false ideas about human nature persist according to the speaker?

• They are constantly updated

• They are believed to be true

• They are scientifically proven

• They are taught in schools

What did Adam Smith believe about human nature?

• Humans are inherently lazy

• Humans seek intellectual fulfillment

• Humans are driven by social recognition

• Humans are naturally industrious

What does the speaker suggest is created by the shape of the institution within which people work?

• New technologies

• People fitted to the institution's demands

• Social equality

• Economic growth

What does the speaker mean by 'unfinished animals'?

• Humans are evolving creatures

• Human behavior is unpredictable

• Human nature is shaped by society

• Humans are incomplete without education

What does the speaker believe we design by designing institutions?

• Human nature

• Economic systems

• Technological advancements

• Political structures

What question does the speaker urge leaders to ask themselves?

• How to implement new technologies?

• How to increase profits?

• What are the best management practices?

• What kind of human nature do you want to help design?