This quote touches on the often overlooked nuances of work and the ethics surrounding it. Ehrenreich seems to acknowledge that work itself, especially when done diligently and without fuss, is generally benign or even commendable. However, she raises an interesting point about the moral or ethical judgments we place on work as a concept. The idea that work should be bound by an 'ethic' suggests societal attempts to moralize or idealize certain types of labor, sometimes to the point of justifying exploitation or inaction if the work is deemed 'ethical.' Ehrenreich's sentiment hints at a pragmatic view: work, in itself, is neither inherently virtuous nor condemnable—it is a means to an end, a necessity, or even a source of dignity depending on context, but shouldn't be burdened with moral weight that complicates straightforward evaluation of its value. This perspective encourages us to reconsider how society elevates certain occupations or labor practices, often at the expense of critical evaluation of the conditions, fairness, or the importance of the work performed. It also invites reflection on the social constructs that turn work into a moral arena, possibly leading to debilitating guilt or unwarranted praise. Recognizing that work is simply a human activity—sometimes necessary, sometimes fulfilling, but not inherently moral or immoral—can help foster a more honest, less judgmental discourse about labor practices and personal contributions. Such a stance could lead to more pragmatic policies focused on fairness and dignity rather than moral judgments often used to uphold or critique certain types of work.