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What would you consider a good job?" Answered as follows…

“What would you consider a good job?" Answered as follows: "A good job is one in which I don't have to work, and get paid a lot of money." When I heard that I cheered and yelled and felt that he should be given an A+, for he had perfectly articulated the American dream of those who despise…” quote by Isaac Asimov
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“What would you consider a good job?" Answered as follows: "A good job is one in which I don't have to work, and get paid a lot of money." When I heard that I cheered and yelled and felt that he should be given an A+, for he had perfectly articulated the American dream of those who despise knowledge. What a politician that kid would have made.”

Isaac Asimov

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He defines an ideal job as one with high pay and no work, praising that view as the American dream for the anti‑intellectual.

In simple terms: A good job is high pay, no work.

Key Takeaway

Critique of a lazy, materialistic career ideal.

Themes

materialism work ethic American dream

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career advice
  • education
  • politics
  • economics

Key Concepts

anti‑intellectualism social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value leisure over contribution?
  • How does this view affect society?
A Different Perspective

Such a job may be unsustainable and exploitative.

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