The Burnout Society
"The Burnout Society" is a book by philosopher Byung-Chul Han that explores the modern condition of exhaustion and burnout in contemporary society. Han argues that the relentless pursuit of productivity and self-optimization leads to a culture where individuals feel overwhelmed and depleted. This shift from a disciplinary society to an achievement-oriented one results in a loss of community and deeper connections.
The book critiques the impact of technology and capitalism on mental health, suggesting that constant connectivity and the pressure to perform contribute to feelings of isolation. Han emphasizes the need for rest and reflection to counteract the pervasive sense of burnout in today's fast-paced world.