Work Ethic: Meaning and Application in the American Context The Meaning of "Work Ethic" and How This Phrase Applies to Americans

From the onset, it is important to note that the phrase "work ethic" does not have an assigned definition. This is to say that many definitions of the phrase have been offered in the past. For this discussion, I will make use of the dictionary meaning of the phrase. Work ethic according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary is in basic terms "a belief in work as a moral good" (Merriam-Webster, 2013). For this reason, work ethic should be seen as a belief in not only the importance but also the moral benefit of work. On this front, work is seen as having a certain intrinsic value and hence is deemed good for the overall development of a person and the society at large. As per the definition above, work ethic has therefore got to do with respect for handwork which could be demonstrated...

Indeed, given our cultural orientation, our jobs go hand in hand with our personal identities. From quite an early age, we are constantly reminded that the only way to succeed in life is through hard work, dedication to whatever it is that we engage in, and development of a positive work ethic. In seeking to further explain how the phrase "work ethic" applies to Americans, it would be prudent to highlight some of the indicators of positive work ethic in the American society. To begin with, a positive work ethic in an organizational setting could include showing up to work on time and showing respect to not only superiors but also to other employees. A positive work ethic could also include desisting from embezzling company funds and exposing acts and instances of embezzlement. Yet another indicator of…