BS Jobs

The 'Hidden Brain' podcast episode on 'BS Jobs' delves into the phenomenon of jobs that seem pointless to those who hold them. Host Shankar Vedantam introduces the topic by sharing anecdotes from individuals who have held such positions, from passing out flyers for a streetcar to sitting in a closet doing minimal paper filing. These jobs lead one to question their purpose and contribution, often leaving workers feeling as if their roles are, in essence, meaningless.

Anthropologist and author David Graeber, guest of the episode, defines 'BS Jobs' as roles that are not necessarily menial or boring but are predominantly pointless. He notes that these jobs are often well-paid and come with prestige, yet they leave employees feeling miserable. Graeber recounts the overwhelming response to an essay he wrote on the subject, where people from around the globe identified with the concept, sharing stories of their own 'BS Jobs.' Surveys have even shown that a significant percentage of workers believe their jobs make no meaningful impact on the world.

Graeber discusses the history of work and how the concept of time being bought and sold is a relatively recent phenomenon. He highlights the absurdity of certain jobs within bureaucratic systems, such as a subcontractor for the German military whose sole task is to move a computer from one room to another, a process mired in unnecessary complexity due to outsourcing and administrative bloat.

The episode also explores the psychological and social consequences of 'BS Jobs.' Graeber points out that meaningful work is deeply tied to our sense of self and well-being, drawing parallels with children's development and their realization that they can have an effect on the world. He suggests that 'BS Jobs' can lead to a sense of scriptlessness, where individuals lack a narrative to make sense of their work, leading to confusion and distress.