1.1 The History of Work

History is not a simple, straightforward path, nor is it a repetitive cycle. It doesn't adhere to a predetermined plan of constant improvement. Instead, history unfolds diversely across different regions of the world. In some areas, it may even run counter to the mainstream or progress at varying speeds. Within the annals of history, we witness both creative and destructive forces operating simultaneously. We can observe local and regional developments that occasionally evolve into a "glocal" or global confluence.

Myths about creation and destruction exist in all human cultures, spanning from the oldest known cultures, such as the Australian Aborigines and indigenous peoples worldwide, to ancient Asian, Middle Eastern, African, American, and European civilizations. Human history is an ongoing narrative marked by the creation of periods of peace and prosperity intertwined with periods of conflict. It's also a tale of the rise and fall of empires. A common thread seems to be the role of power, especially absolute power and corruption, in the downfall of empires. Excessive wealth and authority often lead to hubris, followed by decay.

Epic cosmic battles and the interplay of creation and destruction are recurring themes in most belief systems around the world, reflecting the enduring struggle between the bright and dark aspects of human nature.

History is a continuous and disruptive journey characterized by creation and destruction. In the grand scheme of things, human history is a pursuit of a higher quality of life. While everyone has their own definition of life quality, it's worth noting that this concept evolves throughout one's lifetime. Additionally, since humans are inherently social beings, their quality of life is deeply influenced by the well-being of the community and society to which they belong.

Life quality comprises various factors, some rooted in the necessity for survival, such as clean air, potable water, nutritious food, shelter, and a supportive social environment. Others are driven by innate instincts like reproduction and responses to threats. Many aspects are shaped by education, socialization, and the prevailing worldview, including the prevailing zeitgeist principles.

A comprehensive examination of "work" reveals two distinct stages. The first, prehistoric stage spans over three million years, but it is documented solely through artifacts, lacking written records. The second stage commences with the invention of writing approximately five to six thousand years ago, originating in Mesopotamia and extending to regions like Egypt and later China.

Beliefs and religions have played pivotal roles in the evolution of the concept of work. Work encompasses a wide array of human activities, ranging from basic survival tasks to leisure, sports, and even religious practices. It's important to acknowledge this diversity, as human needs and purposes have evolved over time, influencing the nature of work. Today, our world is increasingly hybrid, blending the real, digital, and virtual realms, which, in turn, affects our work activities. Regrettably, many observers assert that the ongoing technological disruption, or perhaps revolution, has created a profound challenge: the loss of the "meaning of work."