Laziness Does Not Exist

In the book, Price attempts to "dispel as a societal myth" the "link between self-worth and productivity".[1] He analyzes television and film to demonstrate the history of the belief and interviews experts and acquaintances to explain the harm of overcoming laziness.[1] Price also explains his thesis through the experience of being LGBT, referencing the career of Andrew Tobias.[2]

Price claims that burnout is a more likely explanation for lack of productivity.[3]

The book does not make claims that hard work is a bad thing.[3]

The Financial Times says the book "is definitely worth a read" for those looking to understand why they aspire to a goal of productivity.[1]

John Warner of the Chicago Tribune writes, "the exploration in the book is nuanced and thorough", also noting that objections to the premise are confronted clearly and gently.[3]

Writing for Chicago Review of Books, Bessie Taliaferro says the book "upends the self-help books on our nightstands as well as in our minds".[2] She highlights the book's offering of "escape from the “fitter, happier, more productive” mentality".[2]