Beyond Boredom: Being Human in a Post-Work World

Brian Harris; Jon Bergmann

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Chapter 20 Beyond Boredom: Being Human in a Post-Work World

In: Transforming Work

Authors:

Brian Harris

Brian Harris
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Jon Bergmann

Jon Bergmann
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Type:: Chapter

Pages:: 415–430

DOI:: https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004696235_026

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Abstract

As Christian theology turns its attention to the intersection of faith, work, and the theology of vocation, social commentators such as Noah Yuval Harari are predicting that by 2050 we could see the widespread emergence of what Harari calls the ‘useless class’—a large number of people without use to the workforce as a result of advances in AI.¹ With no shortage of cheaply produced goods, humanity may well transition from a world of paid employment to one where a Universal Basic Income is available and leisure is the new normal. This chapter explores some key concerns for a post-work world, the missiological implications of each being close to the surface:

–What can we make of human being when technology begins to do our relational work for us?
–What narrative will move us forward in a world where work no longer satisfies our need for purpose?
–Is it theologically responsible to be Transforming work if the future of work is in question, or could this lead to large scale disenchantment with faith itself?

This intentionally provocative essay does not interrogate whether Harari’s claims are likely to prove accurate—noting that Harari himself admits that he is not a prophet—but it is a serious exploration of what the future might look like if humanity continues along Harari’s predicted technological trajectory. It invites the church and its missiologists to be on the front foot and to imagine possible future worlds. They might never come to pass, but since part of the genius of the Christian faith is its ability to adapt to changing circumstances, this is a call to be prophetic, predictive and to engage our imaginations as we look to the future.

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Transforming Work

Missiological Perspectives for the Church in the World

Series: Theology and Mission in World Christianity, Volume: 30

E-Book ISBN:: 9789004696235

Publisher:: Brill

Print Publication Date:: 08 May 2024

Subjects
- Religious Studies
  - General
- Theology and World Christianity
  - General

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Chapter 20 Beyond Boredom: Being Human in a Post-Work World

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Transforming Work

Missiological Perspectives for the Church in the World

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