Eric Kim offers a philosophical perspective on modern slavery, viewing it in a broader context beyond its historical definition. He philosophizes about the nature of modern life and society, suggesting that modern capitalist structures propagate a form of modern slavery. Kim defines ‘slavery’ in this context as the lack of control over one’s free time and, consequently, their life. He points out that having a lot of money does not necessarily equate to freedom, as many high-paid corporate jobs leave individuals with no free time, effectively making them “high-paid slaves.”

Kim expands on this by noting that modern conveniences, technologies, and tools are often built on the back of what he considers modern slaves. This includes people working long hours in factories or in high-pressure jobs in industries like banking and software development. He argues that we are enslaved to jobs we dislike just to pay for necessities and that this slavery can sometimes be self-inflicted due to lifestyle creep and hedonic adaptation.

Additionally, Kim discusses the impact of modern AI and algorithms, which he believes are controlling our behavior and minds. He also touches on the concept of consumerism, suggesting that we are indoctrinated into a consumerist mindset from a young age.

To combat this modern slavery, Kim proposes solutions such as becoming an entrepreneur, reducing expenses, practicing ‘simulated poverty,’ and not desiring superfluous stuff. He suggests focusing on creating and producing rather than consuming. Kim believes that finding a job that aligns with personal preferences and values, even if it means being self-employed or quitting an unfulfilling job, is key to gaining true freedom in a modern capitalist society oai_citation:1,Modern Slavery – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Modern Slavery – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Modern Slavery – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Modern Slavery – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,Modern Slavery – ERIC KIM.