{"id":88,"date":"2025-01-12T16:38:59","date_gmt":"2025-01-12T16:38:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/?p=88"},"modified":"2025-10-10T09:58:33","modified_gmt":"2025-10-10T09:58:33","slug":"debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/","title":{"rendered":"Debating 72-Hour Workweeks: Productivity, Privilege, and the Cost of Overwork"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/#Introduction\" title=\"Introduction\">Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/#Advocating_72-Hour_Workweeks_A_Privilege\" title=\"Advocating 72-Hour Workweeks: A Privilege?\">Advocating 72-Hour Workweeks: A Privilege?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/#Does_Long_Hour_Work_Equal_Greater_Productivity\" title=\"Does Long Hour Work Equal Greater Productivity?\">Does Long Hour Work Equal Greater Productivity?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/#The_Costs_of_Working_72-92_Hours_a_Week\" title=\"The Costs of Working 72-92 Hours a Week\">The Costs of Working 72-92 Hours a Week<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/#Impact_on_Women_in_the_Workforce\" title=\"Impact on Women in the Workforce\">Impact on Women in the Workforce<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-6'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/2025\/01\/12\/debating-72-hour-workweeks-productivity-privilege-and-the-cost-of-overwork\/#Conlcusion\" title=\"Conlcusion\">Conlcusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h6><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n<p>The recent remarks by tech tycoon Mr Narayana Murthy advocating a 72-hour workweek for workers have ignited widespread debate about the nature of work, labour rights, and the future of work and productivity. Adding fuel to the fire, Mr S.N. Subrahmanyan, Chairman of L&amp;T, called on employees to join hands at the workplace, even on Sundays. These statements have sparked intense discussions on social media, often limited to memes and superficial commentary, lacking a nuanced understanding of the issues.<\/p>\n<p>This article dives deeper into the implications of such statements. It examines whether veterans like Narayana Murthy and S.N. Subrahmanyan are justified in advocating extended work hours in the name of national development and productivity. We will explore whether a causal relationship exists between increased work hours and productivity, the opportunity costs of working 72 hours per week, or whether it is just a facade of crony capitalism. Also, we will assess the feasibility of such approaches. Instead of delving into the normative ethics of labour, we aim to analyse the practicality of these arguments in limited ways to check the feasibility of working 72 or 92 hours per week.<\/p>\n<h6><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advocating_72-Hour_Workweeks_A_Privilege\"><\/span>Advocating 72-Hour Workweeks: A Privilege?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n<p>Mr Narayan Murthy likely worked over 72 hours a week, or might still be doing so to build an exceptional company. His dedication to hard work is admirable, and I respect it. Building a company worth 8.1 trillion INR undoubtedly requires immense courage and effort, including long working hours. In return, he has amassed a fortune of 36,600 crore INR. From this position of immense wealth, advocating for 72-hour work weeks reflects a unique privilege, one free from the burdens of financial insecurity, familial responsibilities, or the health challenges of modern life. With such resources, these challenges can be addressed or mitigated with relative ease.<\/p>\n<p>Historically, science has shown that risks, whether related to health, work, or responsibilities, can often be managed effectively when adequate resources are available. For someone of his fortune, any potential hazard can likely be addressed quickly and effectively.<br \/>\nUnfortunately, most of the Indian workforce does not share this level of privilege. With a per capita income of just 184,000 INR annually (about 15,333 INR monthly), much of this income is consumed by essential expenses like education, food, and entertainment, leaving little room for savings. In the event of a medical emergency, many families face the devastating burden of significant debt. Those advocating for longer working hours often overlook this harsh reality, as their privileged circumstances shield them from such vulnerabilities.<\/p>\n<h6><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_Long_Hour_Work_Equal_Greater_Productivity\"><\/span>Does Long Hour Work Equal Greater Productivity?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n<p>There is no direct causal relationship between long working hours and growth or productivity. What truly drives productivity and growth is deep, focused work supported by a healthy mental state. A study by Stanford University reveals that productivity drops significantly after 49 hours of work per week, with minimal gains beyond 55 hours. Employees working 70 hours accomplish no more than those working 55 hours. This underscores the fact that the quality of work and engagement, not the sheer number of hours, is what fosters productivity.<\/p>\n<p>In today\u2019s world, where AI and modern technology allow us to maximise efficiency, it\u2019s entirely possible to achieve high levels of productivity in far fewer than 72 hours per week. Advocating for excessively long working hours often stems from one of two things: either an outdated mindset about work and labour or the whims and fancies of certain individuals. I&#8217;ll leave it to you to determine which is more likely.<\/p>\n<h6><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Costs_of_Working_72-92_Hours_a_Week\"><\/span>The Costs of Working 72-92 Hours a Week<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It\u2019s<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> often said<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> that everything comes at a cost, and working 72 or more hours a week is no exception. Humans are inherently social beings, deeply connected to their communities and the relationships within them. Prolonged work hours can significantly impact individuals, not limited to these two but in many more ways:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A-Erosion of Social and Cultural Connections<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">:- Long work hours can drastically disrupt <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">the<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> social and cultural fabric <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">of society<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Spending less time with family and friends can strain relationships and weaken social support systems. Multiple studies also indicate that extended work hours <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">are linked<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> to marital dissatisfaction and even higher divorce rates, further highlighting the toll on personal relationships and social cohesion.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">B-Severe Health Risks<\/span><\/strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">:- Extended work hours can lead to chronic fatigue and numerous health complications.<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Studies show a clear association between long hours and increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and strokes. According to estimates by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), working over 55 hours a week raises the risk of stroke by 35% and heart disease by 17%. Additionally, there is substantial evidence linking long working hours to heightened levels of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<h6><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Impact_on_Women_in_the_Workforce\"><\/span>Impact on Women in the Workforce<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n<p>A study by Deloitte highlights that women in the workforce are among the most vulnerable, often facing heightened risks of both physical and mental exploitation. For example, half of the women surveyed reported higher stress levels compared to the previous year, with long working hours being a significant contributing factor.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, we cannot overlook the dual burden many women bear. Beyond their professional responsibilities, women often have substantial roles to play at home. Working 9-12 hours at the office, followed by at least 6 hours of household duties, is not only exhausting but can also have severe consequences for their physical and mental health. This relentless cycle puts them at greater risk of developing chronic diseases and even facing premature mortality. It\u2019s absolutely overwhelming!<\/p>\n<p>A study by the Institute for Women&#8217;s Policy Research (IWPR) further underscores this issue, revealing that extended work hours exacerbate gender inequality. Women are disproportionately affected as they struggle to balance demanding work schedules with personal and family responsibilities. This imbalance highlights the urgent need to re-evaluate work culture and create systems that prioritise both well-being and gender equity.<\/p>\n<h6><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conlcusion\"><\/span>Conlcusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h6>\n<p>There are still many nuances to explore on this topic, but certain limitations prevent us from delving deeper. However, the central question remains the same: does working long hours truly benefit firms or individuals in any way? Or does it contribute to nation-building? The available literature suggests otherwise. The focus of the debate should shift toward finding ways to effectively utilise or maximise productivity within reasonable time frames, emphasising quality of work over quantity.<\/p>\n<p>In today\u2019s world, where we have the privilege of leveraging AI and advanced technologies, the conversation should focus on how these tools can enhance productivity and drive business growth. Instead of promoting harmful, anti-human, or misogynistic narratives about workers, we should advocate for humane and inclusive strategies that prioritise both efficiency and well-being.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction The recent remarks by tech tycoon Mr Narayana Murthy advocating a 72-hour workweek for workers have ignited widespread debate [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":89,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[18,21,19,20],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=88"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":128,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88\/revisions\/128"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/89"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=88"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=88"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/shadabaalam.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=88"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}