±¬ÁÏTV

Work directly connects us to the economic process - it is how we produce and how we earn the money we need to consume. Consequently, work must be a central piece of any rethinking of prosperity.

In this event our speaker, ), will draw together empirical modelling and economic philosophy to explore labour dynamics under capitalism, and in radical economic traditions. In doing so he will show how rethinking work can help us achieve our environmental and social goals.

First, he explores the paradox of work under capitalism: we fear losing work, yet we dread the work we have. Drawing on feminist and ecological schools of economic analysis he argues that work does not need to be something to be minimised or maximised. Work is not the way that we make a wage, or the effort that is put into creating a marketable product. Instead, work is the contribution we make to sustaining life itself. The challenge is to refocus the economy, such that it can recognise and value inefficient but socially useful forms of work. Finally Simon draws on empirical analyses to show how changes in the kind of work we do can support broader transitions.

The event will include a drinks reception, audience Q&A, and an opportunity for informal networking and discussion following the talk.

A limited online attendance option will also be available for those unable to join us in person.

This event is part of our ‘Rethinking Prosperity on a Finite Planet’ series.

±¬ÁÏTV the speaker - Simon Mair

Simon’s paid work is as in the department of Environment and Geography at the University of York. He takes a systems approach to understanding economy-society-environment relationships, with the aim of re-imagining and rebuilding a sustainable economy.

He has been co-investigator with the Centre for the Understanding of Sustainable Prosperity, Marine Spatial Planning Accounting for Climate Effects, and WISE Horizons, and is co-founder of Management Educators Navigating Degrowth (MEND). Simon sits on the expert advisory board of Badvertising, is a strategic partner with Business Declares, and UK country contact for the European Society for Ecological Economics.

Simon is attempting to pre-figure a broader vision of what work could be: he works part time, taking one day a week to care for his son, has previously run a youth group, organised for various political groups, and held positions with local trade union branches.