Philosophies of Work in the Platonic Tradition: A History of Labor and Human Flourishing

The Platonic tradition provides resources for thinking about the meaning and value of work, which Jeffrey Hanson argues is too narrow and cramped. He traces the lineage of work from Plato to Augustine, Bernard of Clairvaux, Theophilus Presbyter, Petrarch, Martin Luther, John Ruskin, and Simone Weil, providing practical suggestions for how to approach work in a socially responsible manner in the 21st century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 21 April 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Platonic tradition offers a rich tapestry of ideas for delving into the profound significance and inherent value of work. In this comprehensive historical exploration, Jeffrey Hanson harnesses the insights of the tradition's esteemed thinkers to shed light on why our contemporary lexicon for assessing labor and its rewards remains narrow and constricted. By tracing the lineage of Platonic thought, Hanson compellingly argues that we should approach the valuation of work not solely in terms of its financial rewards but also as an integral component of a fulfilling and thriving human life.

Beginning with Plato's extensive exploration of the relationship between work and wisdom, Hanson delves into the powerful arguments of Augustine, the sole author of the ancient world's sole treatise dedicated to manual labor. He discusses Bernard of Clairvaux, introduces the priest-craftsman Theophilus Presbyter, and provides a comprehensive study of work and leisure in the writings of Petrarch. Alongside Martin Luther, Hanson engages with John Ruskin and Simone Weil, two thinkers deeply troubled by the conditions of the working class in the rapidly industrializing economies of Europe.

This original study of Plato and his inheritors' ideas offers practical guidance for approaching work in a socially responsible manner in the 21st century. It reveals the profound benefits of linking work and morality, fostering a harmonious and ethically-driven approach to our professional endeavors. By embracing the insights of the Platonic tradition, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the role of work in shaping our lives and contributing to the greater good of society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350150935