The corrosion of character

This book offers us important insights into the political and social context of the pre- and post-globalized world.

In The Corrosion of Character , Sennett explores the contemporary landscape, represented by Enrico's son, Rico, whose life is more materially successful, albeit in a different context, in which work is no longer a long-term commitment or with more permanent meanings. Drawing on interviews with laid-off IBM executives in New York, employees of a modern Boston bakery, an employee-turned-advertising executive, and many others, Sennett analyzes the disorienting effects of the new capitalism.

It reveals the stark contrast between two worlds of work: that of rigid hierarchical organizations, where what mattered was a sense of personal character; and the brave new world of corporate reengineering, risk, flexibility, network marketing, and short-term teams, where what matters is being able to reinvent yourself constantly.

In some respects, the changes that mark the new capitalism are positive: after all, it cannot be denied that they have built a dynamic economy. But they can also erode the sense of purpose, integrity, and mutual trust—factors that previous generations viewed as essential to forging personal character.