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The Death of Homo Economicus

The Death of Homo Economicus

Peter Fleming

(2017)

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Book Details

Abstract

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

Table of Contents

Section Title Page Action Price
Cover Cover
Contents v
Introduction: Welcome to the New Dark Ages 1
1. Cash Psychosis 10
2. Wreckage Economics 40
3. Why Homo Economicus had to Die... Over and Over Again 87
4. The Theatre of Loss ... Work 130
5. Microeconomics (really is) for Dummies 172
6. The Quiet Earth 215
Conclusion: A Marginal Model of Nothingness 256
Notes 269
Index 309