Why Work Feels Broken: Marx and the Modern Workplace
✊ Why does work feel so bad for so many of us, even when things are supposedly going well?
Why are so many people revolted by the prospects of AI and the version of the future being sold by the firms and modern day robber barons of Silicon Valley? Why are titans of business and industry getting booed at university graduation speeches? And why is Gen Z responding with a turn toward Democratic Socialism in cities across the country?
Dr. William Armaline, Professor of Sociology and founder of the Human Rights Minor Program and Human Rights Institute at San Jose State University, thinks a young, romantic, revolutionary Karl Marx, the one writing before the legendary beard and weighty volumes of Capital, has a lot to offer these questions.
In this talk, Bill dives into Marx's original concept of alienation and its surprising relevance today. Do people work by choice or by threat in the United States? What do we actually sell to our employer in exchange for our pay, and what does that mean for us as individuals and as a society?
Audience participation will be encouraged, though certainly not required. 📖
🕰 Event Details
What should I expect?
7:00-7:35 --> The main lecture room opens. Check-in will take place as you enter the lecture room.
7:35-8:20 --> Lecture.
8:20-9:00 --> Q&A and more chatting.
Before the lecture room opens, we invite you to hang out in the venue, play some games, grab a drink, and meet some new people!
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people came solo to our last event, so don't be afraid to do the same—you'll meet some awesome people!
What about parking?
There's no parking on-site, so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.
Do I have to be 21+?
No :) This venue is open to all ages. If you'd like to purchase alcohol, you must be 21+ and present a valid ID.
Will this event be photographed or recorded?
Photos and short video clips may be taken for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded. We do not do full recordings of lectures at this time.
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The lecture is sold out! Can I join a waitlist?
Unfortunately, Luma does NOT support waitlists for paid events yet. We recommend checking back on the event site the day before / the day of the event! Attendees are likely to drop out.
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By attending, you agree to treat speakers, staff, venue employees, and fellow attendees with respect and to follow all venue rules and staff instructions.
Harassment, disruptive behavior, or excessive intoxication will not be tolerated. For the safety and comfort of everyone, Big Brain and the venue reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any attendee at any time, without refund, if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or disrespectful.
🍸 Alcohol & Safety
Depending on the venue, alcohol may be sold and served exclusively by the venue in accordance with California law. Big Brain is not responsible or liable for alcohol service, overconsumption, or any actions resulting from intoxication. By attending, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with a public indoor event and agree that you are solely responsible for your own conduct, safety, and transportation before, during, and after the event.
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