George,

Barry Brown's June 14th column examines whether happiness is overrated, based on some claims that unsmiling workers are more productive. My first objection is that I would rather measure the value of productivity based on whether it contributes to happiness, not vice versa. That said, it is worth noting that many of the demands workers often make of management (better pay, shorter and more flexible hours, better benefits, better training, more safety precautions) can in quite a few cases lead directly to inreased productivity regardless of whether they bring a smile to anyone's face or (somehow mysteriously) sap people's enjoyment of a challenge. A worker who does not need to work an extra job and is better able to meet family obligations and stay healthy and trained is going to be better rested and prepared for work. Mr. Brown should not distract himself with such trivial concerns as human happiness if productivity is what he cares about.

David Swanson (electronic mail, July 14, 2001).