Abstract

In this article I will privilege a particular analytical dimension of work: namely, that of the subjective relation to it understood as activity. Specifically, I will outline a classification of at least four ideal-typical purposes liable to endow – or, if absent, to deprive – this activity of meaning. For each of these ideal-typical purposes I will try to point out the connection with the ideal-typical forms of social action distinguished by Max Weber, and then highlight the main novelties and political implications that have emerged as a result of the most recent material and spiritual transformations of the “exuberant capitalismµ of our time.