The problem with modern work was summarized nicely a few years back in Studs Terkel's book, "Working." The book consisted of interviews from a variety of workers, most lamenting that they did not find expected satisfaction in their employment.
I thought one interviewee summed it up well by saying, "Jobs aren't big enough for people." Many modern jobs grate against our inherent need for contribution. Too often workers are distanced from the end product, or in some cases the end product isn't much of a contribution anyways. It's just not enough to push papers around and make a buck - people feel the need to make a difference.
In some ways, I feel society is misleading its youth. They get the standard pitchline: go to college, get a job, live happily ever after. The focus is usually on well-paying professions, which, while very reasonable, doesn't generate much "spiritual income". Many people utilize their leisure time to make a difference, but wouldn't it be nice if their full-time jobs served this function?
Jobs have certainly progressed in terms of comfort, moving from manual labor and factory jobs to modern office jobs. But breaking bricks or pushing papers are still similar - neither is very meaningful for people. And physically, the first one wears your body out, while the second one lets your body fall into neglect from disuse.
I'm not sure how this problem can be solved - the division of labor has flourished under capitalism and is the main engine behind our increasing standard of living. I would be hesistant to have government intervene into such a gray area. But it's always nice to dream of a world where the jobs are big enough for the people.
