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The Death of Homo Economicus

Work, Debt and the Myth of Endless Accumulation

Peter Fleming author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Pluto Press

Published:20th Sep '17

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

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The Death of Homo Economicus cover

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.

'Sparklingly sardonic ... Hilariously angry' -- The Guardian
'A timely call-to-arms for idlers everywhere' -- The Idler
'An outstanding analysis of economics, society and the human condition' -- Morning Star

ISBN: 9780745399423

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 496g

320 pages