The Death of Homo Economicus
Work, Debt and the Myth of Endless Accumulation
Peter Fleming
In today’s workplaces we work harder and longer, labouring under the illusion that this will bring us more wealth. As this myth becomes increasingly preposterous, it’s time to understand why we believe in it, and where it came from.
The Death of Homo Economicus explores the origin of this oppressive myth, in order to destroy it. The story begins with the creation of a fake persona labelled the ‘dollar-hunting man’, invented by economists Adam Smith and Friedrich Hayek. Today, this persona, driven by competition and ego, is used by politicians and managers to draw a veil over the terrible reality of work under capitalism.
Creeping into all aspects of life, the desire to constantly compete and accumulate must be resisted if we are to create a better way of life for all.
Other books by Peter Fleming
The Mythology of Work
How Capitalism Persists Despite Itself
Peter Fleming
How neoliberal society has transformed the nature of work into a pointless ritual.
Dark Academia
How Universities Die
Peter Fleming
Bestselling author Peter Fleming uncovers the dark underbelly of the modern university to reveal cracks in the ivory tower