Alienation at work
Social philosophy and critique of political economy
It explores forms of separation between workers, their activity, and the products of their work.
Historical context
Alienation figures in modern criticism of society and work. Later interpretations distinguish subjective experience from social relations.
Overview
A job can pay well while providing little control over what is produced or how work proceeds. This allows examination of a separation distinct from personal dissatisfaction with pay.
Main claims
Work organisation can separate workers from decisions, outcomes, or capacities belonging to their activity.
Debates and nuances
Some theories focus on objective relations and others on subjective experience.
This entry provides educational context.