12 Dec 2021

Why passion can be a dangerous thing

From Sunday Morning, 11:31 am on 12 December 2021

Following your passion is a popular mantra for career decision-making throughout the world. But does passion have a dark side? Erin Cech is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Michigan and author of The Trouble with Passion: How Searching for Fulfillment at Work Fosters Inequality. In her new book, Cech explains why following our passion -- even if it means a poor salary and job instability -- is a seductive idea to many people. However, the 'passion principle' can also fail us, perpetuating class, gender and race inequality -- and even bolstering worker exploitation. Professor Cech is with us to discuss her new book and who gets left behind by passion-seeking.

Erin Cech is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Michigan and author of The Trouble with Passion: How Searching for Fulfillment at Work Fosters Inequality.

Erin Cech is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Michigan and author of The Trouble with Passion: How Searching for Fulfillment at Work Fosters Inequality. Photo: Her & Him Studio http://herandhimstudio.com