Is Karl Marx’s theory of alienation a valid concept?
Karl Marx proposed that alienation happens when a worker
does not feel “at one” with the fruits of their labor, an alienated worker
feels detached from themselves and frustrated (Section 13-4).
Yes, I do think that the feeling of alienation at one’s job
is real and that it can contribute to one’s happiness.
When a person is unhappy with their job they become unhappy
with themselves and in the other aspects of their life. Feeling alienated at
work happens for many possible reasons. For instance: when a person receives no
feeling of fulfillment from their work; when a person feels like they do not
matter to a company; when a person works at a job only because of the money it
provides (Section 13-4).
Why do I think that the concept of alienation is valid?
When I worked for years as a dental assistant, I felt
alienated.
Why did I feel alienated when I worked as a dental
assistant?
It is a stressful, fast paced, physically demanding job, and
it seemed most dental assistants in general felt alienated. The usual turn
around for assistants is high. I believe it is due to their alienation and the
lack of happiness they feel at their job, as well as the lack of appreciation.
They are the backbones of the dental office and it could not run without them,
yet they are overworked and underappreciated greatly. I was always made to feel
guilty for taking time off, my happiness never seemed of importance to the
doctors. They were always more concerned with how much money the office is
making. I was often urged to work if I was sick, not to take time off unless
absolutely necessary, and was still made to feel guilty about it even then. I
got into the field because I wanted to help people, but I received no feeling
of fulfillment because I was being used only as a “means” and not an “end.” The
cherry on top of the reason I agree with the concept of alienation is the
reason I chose to stay and endure my own unhappiness for so many years as a
dental assistant. Why did I choose to stay? The reason was based entirely on
the fact that it paid well.
Since then I have moved on to a job that I am well
appreciated for, and not taken advantage of in any way. I have a job where I
have the opportunity to learn new things constantly, and I get appreciated for
my hard work. Money is no longer the sole reason I have the job that I do. It
is much more meaningful work to me. I am happier in general and my happiness is
much more stable. My future now feels bright rather than dark. I no longer feel
alienated, and these experiences have illustrated to me the concept of alienation
and the detrimental effects it can have on a person. Alienation is valid, and
refusing to subject yourself to a job that alienates you, is a key to
happiness.
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