Ss27-02 the Human Dimension of Work: Work as a Metaphor for Life

Introduction When does work help keeping in good health? When analysing the human dimension, any approach addressing the positive effects of work must consider cultural and historical roots. Materials and Methods An anthropological and artistic path, marked by art works, will be presented as a way to highlighting the evolution of the human work throughout centuries. Results Aristotle stated that “happiness is the highest human good”. The ancient Greek wording for happiness means the success of the vocation. Man, therefore, must expand life to the fullest, by committing himself. Work became an important commitment only after the abolition of slavery. The comparison between Greek caryatids (slaves) and medieval telamons (free men) gives a clear picture of different approaches to the meaning of work fatigue through centuries. Symbolism on the Renaissance arts and craft panels on the Giotto’s bell tower in Florence, shows that dignity of work is in its meaning, motive and purpose, and not in the matter. Macchiaioli and Divisionism art movements in Italy, as well as Realism in France, started showing the workers. The content of the work, the meaning for the worker, for his family and society were represented. The worker started scrutinizing the destiny of which he hoped to be the creator. Conclusions Modern work is full of rapid changes that could lead to lacking knowledge and fear of facing the unknown. Knowing the meaning and strength of different cultural roots, will be of great help, in keeping up the pace and understanding the role at work and maybe at life.