Research indicates that friendships at work increase productivity and overall job satisfaction. Additionally, employees are more likely to believe they are well-paid. Those who share friendships at work are more likely to share ideas, be innovative and feel like their work has real meaning and purpose (p. 17). Yet, Vernon posits that in the workplace, we often experience a pseudo-intimacy, whereby “colleagues can know so much about each other but can care so little” (Vernon, p. 15).
In this week’s reading material, the following philosophers discuss their views on this topic: Aristotle, Russell, Smith Ferguson, Marx and Simmel. Make sure to incorporate their views as you answer each discussion question. Think about how their views may be similar or different from your own. In at least 350 words total, please answer each of the following, drawing upon your reading materials and your personal insight:
- To what extent does having friendships in the workplace impact your own level of job satisfaction?
- Please describe some of your own friendships in a workplace environment and whether you have been able to experience true care and support from your colleagues. What about genuine friendship?
Many companies are aware of the research that indicates that friendships at work increase productivity and overall job satisfaction (p. 17). People with friends at work are even twice as likely to believe they are well-paid (p. 17). Those who share friendships at work are more likely to share ideas, be innovative, and feel like their work has real meaning and purpose (p. 17).
In reality, commercial society encourages friendliness but not strong alliances, which can undermine the authority of industry. In short, strong friendships can prove time consuming and produce less productive workers, as well as contribute to nepotism and cronyism (p. 39). Other thinkers and critics have noted the drive toward individualism and competition that commercialism promotes, which undermines genuine connection.
Consider the concepts from the Module 4 readings as you participate in the module’s discussions and complete the poll. Be sure to cite the textbook or other sources in your work.
References:
Cooley, D. R. (2002). “False Friends.” Journal of Business Ethics. (195-207). Netherlands: Kluwer Academic Publishers.
Vernon, M. (2010). The Meaning of Friendship. New York, NY: Palgrave Macmillan. Chapter 1: Friends at Work
