ENG 122 Module 2 Assignment- Importance of Analysis
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Gilstrap 1
Joseph Gilstrap
Instructor Rachael Krajna
ENG 122
October 31, 2023
2-5 Assignment: Importance of Analysis
In the article “Rethinking Work,” author Barry Schwartz debates the nature of work, job satisfaction, and the ever-changing dynamics of the modern workplace. His purpose is to challenge the traditional view of work as primarily driven by financial compensation and to advocate for a reconsideration of how work is structured to promote a more meaningful, engaged, and fulfilled work environment. Schwartz uses a persuasive and reflective style to discuss critical topics of work and job satisfaction. Early in the article, the author says, “I think this cynical and pessimistic approach to work is entirely backward. It is making us dissatisfied with our jobs- and
it is also making us worse at them.” (Schwartz
,
para. 5). The author uses an authoritative tone to meticulously challenge the Status Quo. This is an attempt to shift the reader’s perspective and to encourage them to consider an alternative viewpoint of work that values significance and engagement. A closer look at Barry Schwartz’s claim will provide a deeper understanding of the article's message. The author argues that the perception of work is primarily driven by financial compensation and should be reevaluated. Schwartz disputes the notion that people are naturally lazy and only motivated by money, suggesting that meaningful work can be a powerful motivator even without financial rewards (Schwartz, para. 2). He acknowledges that the traditional view of work as the prevailing wisdom and challenges it by suggesting that human
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motivation goes beyond the financial aspects of a job and that people seek work that engages them and has significance. Along with the historical context of Adam Smith’s views, Barry Schwartz provides real-world examples. An example he uses is the hospital custodians viewing their work as doing whatever they could to
comfort patients and their families
or assisting the professional staff with patient care. To further support his claim the author mentions the custodians said that these interactions with others are what motivated them to get up and go to work every morning (Schwartz, para.9-10). The author also anticipates counterarguments by discussing efficiency and routine in work and refutes these arguments by highlighting evidence, such as the study of 136 companies across a broad range of industries. These studies found that companies that placed a higher value on human resources were 20 percent more likely to survive than those that did not (Schwartz, para. 17). To
conclude the article, the author reiterates his claim and reinforces the importance of meaningful work, making a final push for a shift in how we perceive work. This article is not only about the views of how work is perceived but rather the human desire for meaning and significance in what we do.
What makes Barry Schwartz effective is how he is balanced and reflective in his writing, encouraging the reader to reconsider their assumptions about work. He also highlights the negative consequences of a financially focused approach. The author also provides compelling evidence of the impact meaningful work has on job satisfaction. Schwartz successfully advocates
for a reevaluation of the perception and structure of work. He carefully structures his argument by using engaging language and relatable examples. This makes his argument easily understandable. Additionally, he provides historical context and academic research to add depth to his claims, strengthening the article's impact. Lastly, Schwartz encourages people to
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reconsider their beliefs of their perception of work, that people are more than just pieces of the workforce “machine” and it is perfectly fine to seek fulfillment and significance while on the job.
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Works Cited
Schwartz, Barry. "Rethinking Work: Is it human nature to hate your job? On the
contrary."
New York Times (1923-)
, Aug 30, 2015, pp. 2
. ProQuest
,
https://ezproxy.snhu.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fhistorical-
newspapers%2Frethinking-work%2Fdocview%2F2074301744%2Fse-
2%3Faccountid%3D3783
.