The Myth of Necessity: Why 40 Hours Still Rule Global Workweeks

The 40-hour workweek is a fixture of modern society, but with the advent of modern technology, it's becoming increasingly evident that it's possible to work fewer hours while maintaining the necessary income. Many argue that with automation and digital tools, the traditional 40-hour workweek is outdated. However, the reality is more complex, and several factors contribute to its persistence.

Why 40 Hours Seem Inevitable

Despite the convenience of modern technology, many people still work the traditional 40-hour workweek for compelling reasons. Chief among these is the economic necessity. In the U.S., for example, adding just 8 hours to a 32-hour workweek means the difference between living comfortably and barely making ends meet. This is a stark reality that drives much of the ongoing discussion about work hours and the economy.

Global Perspective

In Australia, the average workweek for full-time employees is 41.8 hours, with about 13% of employees working over 50 hours per week. This data suggests that in many countries, the push for more efficient work practices is already underway, yet the 40-hour workweek remains the standard. The reason for this is multifaceted.

Outside Work Interests and Personal Choices

Many individuals opt to work 40-hour weeks because they have other commitments outside of their jobs. For instance, taking a 12-hour shift at a factory, as the author has done, reveals the stark reality of the pay and conditions. Despite this, the majority of people in many countries prefer to work Monday through Friday to have weekends off. This preference for quality of life over extended working hours is a significant factor in the persistence of the 40-hour workweek.

Societal and Economic Factors

The 40-hour workweek is also deeply rooted in societal and economic norms. In the U.S., a 40-hour workweek without additional overtime is often expected, and not meeting this standard can impact one's professional reputation. Similarly, the global economy operates under competitive pressures, necessitating optimal efficiency to remain competitive. Instead of reducing the workweek, companies prefer to maintain it to ensure they can maintain lower prices and remain marketable.

Reasons Beyond Efficiency

Technological advancements have not only brought about increased efficiency but also changed the nature of work. Improved productivity means fewer people are needed to perform the same tasks, yet this is often offset by the need for new tasks that involve the new technologies. For example, while computers can perform some tasks more efficiently, they also require ongoing maintenance and support, often necessitating new teams. This perpetuates the need for a longer workweek as costs don’t align with the reduced human effort required.

Conclusion: A Balancing Act

The 40-hour workweek is not a static construct but a result of various interconnected factors, including societal expectations, personal choices, and economic pressures. As technology continues to evolve, it's inevitable that these factors will shift, potentially leading to fewer hours being the norm. However, we are not there yet, and until significant social or economic changes occur, the 40-hour workweek will likely remain the standard.

For those who yearn for a more flexible work schedule, understanding these factors can be a starting point for advocating for change. Whether it's through union movements, policy changes, or individual negotiations, the path forward involves recognizing and addressing the complex reasons behind the 40-hour workweek.