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Comment by tfnw | Hacker News Reader

I think this is the way it is commonly thought of in society, I don't think this is a particularly good way to look at it though. I think the implied assumption in this framework, is that a laborer is less than a craftsman, who is in turn less than an artist. I see this as ripe for abuse by people who wish to project an elitist view on the world.

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Research has demonstrated that people who view their craft as a calling, take pride in it and view it as an important duty in society (even if it is menial) are happier and healthier. I remember watching an interview with a migrant farm worker who took pride in the speed and quality of his berry picking, and the fact that he could pick with two hands simultaneously. That was such an inspiring example for me.

The time involved is basically the same for laborer, craftsman and artist; they differ only in quality of and intention behind the effort. The laborer could be a craftsman or an artist by changing his perspective and approach to his work. From this perspective, the laborer is lesser because he does not fully apply himself, not as a result of his profession.

Yeah, I think that's how the GP meant it, ideally that would be the way it is thought of, but I could see it being used as a justification to look down on people like that farm worker.

I understand that criticism but i would urge people to focus on the contrast between working with just your hands vs head vs heart. That, and i think anyone who aspires to become an "artist" in a trade is on the right path.

I appreciate the sentiment, but what if striving for "artistry" turns out to just cause a nuisance for the user? I think the problem here is that everyone experiences "art" differently, and what may be an impactful experience for some may just be irritating for others. Is it always better for someone to strive with their heart?

What if striving for artistry delights the user, but frustrates the spouse and children or leads to the deterioration of the artist's physical health or mental wellbeing?

There are a lot of ways to deconstruct a one dimensional artists > craftsmen > laborers point of view because it is overly simplistic.

If people are elitists at work and they're snooty about it, why stop them?

It may be better if a person used that creative energy in a side project, if the product they work on has a large, varied user base.

I would not want to stop people being elitist, only for those who are to understand that their behaviour has a cost on at least some of those around them.

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