this post was submitted on 26 Jun 2025
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Or rather, what's the Marxist stance on office jobs? Truth be told, I'm writing this while a bit inebriated on my day off lol. But I was still wondering about that question.

Obviously I realize that there are extreme levels to this, like working for the armed forces or a bank, which are clearly indefensible. But what about an office job for a market chain, for example? Or for a multinational seller of cheap goods? Is providing work for such companies considered unethical? Where does one look to find criticisms of one's workplace? And how does one juggle the need for money for survival while only having "soft" skills?

I am open to constructive criticisms and I am genuinely asking. After all, I have started only recently learning Marxist theory and deprogramming myself while reflecting more deeply about society and myself.

Ironically (or shamefully), I just noticed that while I was busy reading basic texts about theory, I forgot to incorporate any sort of deeper analysis of the practical side of it all.

No need to expose yourselves, but what are some of the jobs that principled Marxists are drawn to? Where do you draw the line when looking for a new job?

(I would also be very thankful for any suggestions about books or articles as well! I am quite curious about finding the correct personal balance between need for work and ethical concerns)

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[–] whogivesashit@lemmygrad.ml 4 points 8 hours ago

I'm a software developer for a consultant company that primarily works with government agencies. We also do work for some non profits and a handful of corporations.

I told my boss when I got hired on that I would want to have say in what type of clients I worked with. They said it was agreeable and that they let all workers have a voice in accepting new contracts, so hopefully it works out. Only been there a few months.

If they took on a contract with the DoD or something similar I would immediately start looking for a new job though