Hello! I'm your friend, an economist and financial journalist. The article from "Ganges Park" is like a wake-up call. It doesn't use complex economic models; instead, it uses a sharp, almost sarcastic tone to poke holes in the bubble of modern people's perceptions of "value" and the notion of "deserving what we get."
To make it easier for you to understand, I'll first summarize the main points in plain language and then break down the article into five key aspects to explain the logic behind it.
📝 Summary of the Main Points
The core argument of the article is that modern people are overly anxious because we are obsessed with proving that what we get is "deserved." The author argues that while the concept of "deserving" sounds positive, it's actually a psychological trap. It makes us feel that we need to obtain a "moral license" before we can receive money, love, or success. This craving for legitimacy turns simple market transactions and interpersonal interactions into moral judgments.
The author advocates for a philosophy of "modern nomadism," which includes:
1. Stop worrying about how much you're worth: Value is not fixed; it changes dynamically.
2. Don't sanctify labor: Let machines do the work that machines can do, and use the freed time for yourself instead of worrying about being "useless."
3. Rely on collaboration rather than self-proclamation: Individual strength is limited; real power comes from organizations, alliances, and bargaining power (such as unions, industry associations, or partners), not from endlessly proving how hard you work.
4. **Accept the existence of "rent": Income from luck, connections, licenses, and brands (economically known as "rent") is legitimate and doesn't necessarily have to be earned through hard work.
In one sentence: Ask less about whether you deserve something and more about whether you can negotiate it, whether you have options, and with whom you stand.
---
🔍 In-Depth Explanation: Five Aspects of the Article
1. The Trap of the "Deserving" Mentality: Why Does Desire Need a Suit?
Plain Language: We often hear that we should believe we deserve good things. But the author argues this creates a logical loop. For example, when you want to buy a bag:
- Normal logic: I have the money, I like it, so I buy it.
- "Deserving" logic: I need to prove I'm good enough—am I worthy of it because I'm kind, hardworking, or independent? If not, does getting it mean I'm overstepping my bounds?
The author points out that desire doesn't need a reason; you can simply want something and go for it. However, modern people often try to justify their desires with reasons like "I worked hard." This turns simple actions like shopping, dating, or applying for a job into moral tests. This excessive pursuit of legitimacy is the root of anxiety.
2. The Myth of Labor Value: Sweat Isn't the Only Currency
Plain Language: We're taught that effort equals reward, but the real world is more complex. The author gives a vivid example: If a company makes 10 billion, whose is it?
- Is it the programmers who wrote the code?
- The salespeople who made the deals?
- The investors who put the money in?
- The former employee who left ten years ago but contributed to the company's success?
- Or the consumers who suddenly decided the brand was cool and paid double?
These contributions are inseparable. Modern businesses are like black boxes where inputs and outputs are intertwined. If we try to assign every penny to a specific person, the company can't function. Moreover, much of our income comes from factors like licenses, brand influence, and connections, not just hard work. The author calls these "rent" and says there's no need to feel ashamed of them.
3. The Absurdity of the AI Era: Why Are You Anxious When Machines Do the Work?
Plain Language: With AI, tasks that used to take 20 people three months can now be done by one person in a few hours. You should be happy about having more free time, but many people panic: "What's my value now? Will I be replaced?"
The author argues that the idea that pain and hard work equal value is flawed. Technological progress means we can create more value with less effort. If you worry about being replaced by AI, you're being influenced by outdated work ethics. Instead, use tools to improve your efficiency and use the freed time for other things.
4. From Self-Proclamation to Collective Bargaining: Is an Individual Really That Important?
Plain Language: The author proposes "modern nomadism," suggesting we shouldn't be tied to a single company or identity. We're like nomadic tribes; a company can be a temporary home, but it's not our entire world. The author explains that real power comes from joining organizations and alliances.
- Workers with unions have more bargaining power.
- Capitalists can use funds to influence companies.
- Residents can organize through community groups.
Our strength comes from our networks and the ability to leave a company if needed. Being part of a strong network gives us more power.
5. Let Go of the Craving for Legitimacy: Stop Worrying About the "Righteous Account"
Plain Language: The author criticizes the modern obsession with fairness and deservingness. We constantly calculate whether we've earned what we get, but this is pointless. Money and capital don't necessarily guarantee loyalty or control. Many jobs don't require as many people as before. The author suggests we should be more pragmatic: use tools to save time, negotiate fair contracts, and be flexible in our choices.
💡 Action Steps for You
1. Stop self-judgment: When you buy something expensive or get a high-paying offer, ask if you're happy and if you can afford the consequences, not whether you deserve it.
2. Embrace tools: Use AI and technology to free up time for other things.
3. Build your network: Don't rely on one job; build connections in your industry, join communities, and form partnerships. Your security comes from your network, not just your resume.
4. Accept imperfections: Recognize that luck, connections, and institutional benefits are part of life. The world isn't a black-and-white system of labor and reward.
5. Focus on negotiation: Instead of proving your value, understand the market and negotiate better terms.
I hope this analysis helps you break free from the anxiety associated with the "deserving" mentality and live a more relaxed, practical, and free life.