On the Definition of Work

Abstract

The idea of work is significant for a number of areas of theory and policy development. However, there are great difficulties in giving a definition which is precise enough to be usable in these areas and at the same time satisfies natural logical requirements on the concept. ‘Work’ may be a concept that clusters together various different elements, and a single correct account will probably not be agreed on because of the role the idea plays in debate. The implication is that we need to consider setting aside the idea of work for purposes of theory and policy development.