Chris Dillow: Technical change as collective action problem

Chris Dillow sees Technical change as collective action problem.

In these ways, capitalism is a form of collective action problem. We can imagine a society in which super-machines do indeed allow us all to live in luxurious leisure. But the decentralized decisions of capitalists might not get us there.

Granted, sensible aggregate demand policies might suffice to overcome realization crises — though the believe that such policies will be enacted is a form of what I've called centrist utopianism. But the other obstacle to investment and growth — the fear of future technical change — might not be so easily soluble within the confines of capitalism.

These issues are, of course, unresolved. What is clear, though, is that Marxism presents a useful perspective upon them.

Emphasis Mine

This is a very difficult problem for workers in general. They see their jobs as means of getting sustenance. We need to see our jobs as contributing to the well-being and advancement of society.

This change of focus must be part of the growing consciousness of workers. Without it, we will be forever enslaved to the Capitalists who oppress us into ever-meaningless and demeaning forms of employment.