58. This quotation suggests that the ultimate purpose of business is to streamline and
mechanize work, thereby minimizing it, so that people can make a living but still have
time for other things in life. The assumptions behind this view of business are that the
value of work is entirely instrumental, and that our work lives are distinct from the rest
of our lives. I disagree with both assumptions.
      Admittedly, work is to a large extent instrumental in that we engage in it to
provide for our needs while leaving time and resources for other activities—raising
families, participating in civic life, traveling, pursuing hobbies, and so forth. And these
activities normally take place away from the workplace and are distinct from our work.
However, for most people, work is far more than a means to these ends. It can also be
engaging, enjoyable and fulfilling in itself. And it can provide a context for expressing
an important pan of one's self. However, work will be less of all these to the extent that
it is streamlined and mechanized for quick disposal, as the quotation recommends.
Instead, our jobs will become monotonous and tedious, the work of drones. And we
might become drone-like in the process.
      In addition, work can to some extent be integrated with the rest of our lives. More
and more companies are installing on-site daycare facilities and workout rooms. They
are giving greater attention to the ambiance of the break room, and they are sponsoring
family events, excursions and athletic activities for employees as never before. The
notion behind this trend is that when a company provides employees with ways to fulfill
outside needs and desires, employees will do better work. I think this idea has merit.
      In conclusion, I admit that there is more to life than work, and that work is to
some extent a means to provide a livelihood. But to suggest that this is the sole purpose
of business is an oversimplification that ignores the self-actualizing significance of
work, as well as the ways it can be integrated with other aspects of our lives