On the Nature, Limits, Meaning, and End of Work

This book explores St. Augustine's theology of work, arguing that our culture assumes that our lives' meaning is bound up in our work and that we experience constant pressures to be more efficient and productive. It examines how St. Augustine offers us an alternative vision of work in the context of the monastery, and how we can develop and articulate a unified theology of work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive volume aims to advance Augustinian studies by exploring the nature, boundaries, significance, and ultimate purpose of work. Zachary Settle contends that our culture strongly emphasizes the connection between our life's meaning and our work, placing constant demands on us to enhance efficiency and productivity. Furthermore, we are aware of the ways in which our work structures contribute to an ever-expanding system of poverty and oppression. These cultural assumptions regarding work, coupled with a range of other labor-related issues such as automation, wage depression, wage theft, the rise of a flexible labor force, a lack of worker representation, overwork, and productivism, have rightly sparked numerous inquiries into the nature, meaning, and boundaries of our working lives and working structures.

To address these concerns, this book presents a comprehensive framework for understanding work through the lens of St. Augustine's teachings. By examining his insights into the role of work within the monastery, Settle reveals his understanding of both the appropriate approaches to undertaking work and the ultimate goals we should strive for throughout our lives in a sinful world. Settle skillfully weaves together these fragmented treatments of work found throughout St. Augustine's diverse writings to develop and articulate a unified theology of work.

Through this exploration, readers will gain a deeper appreciation of the significance of work in shaping our individual and collective identities, as well as its potential to bring about positive change in the world. The book will appeal to scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Christian thought on work and its implications for contemporary society.

Weight: 206g
Dimension: 139 x 217 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350299771