Presentation: The Nature of Work

Overview

Philosophers such as Aristotle, Bertrand Russell, and Joseph Pieper have argued that paid work is merely a means to leisure, that leisure is a higher good, which is essential for human flourishing, and that work merely for the sake of work does not contribute to human well-being. For this assignment, you will consider not only your opinion on work, but your opinion on the importance of leisure.

For this assignment, imagine this: your team at work is struggling to balance the goods of work with the goods of leisure; at the same time, management expects employees to work long hours and weekends—whatever it takes to get the job done well and on time. Your team asks you to prepare a presentation for management on the importance of leisure in maintaining a healthy work–life balance. You are asked to not only consider the concept of work, but the value and definition of leisure to an overworked and burnt-out team.

The deliverable for this assignment is to create a 5–7-slide PowerPoint presentation. Consider the opinions of philosophers from this week's readings and activities.

Instructions

Draft a presentation that addresses the following:

• Define the philosophical concept of leisure.
• Explain the difference between leisure and laziness.
• Discuss your opinion regarding whether paid work is merely a means to leisure.
• Describe how leisure should be valued in comparison to work.
• Discuss your opinion regarding the importance of leisure as part of a successful life.

Presentation Requirements

Your presentation should meet the following requirements:

• Length: 5–7 slides
• Format: The format of your presentation must be one that your instructor can access for review and grading.