ABSTRACT
This chapter illustrates that one of the fundamental vectors constructing the contemporary imaginary of work is the pursuit of symbolic immortality. This is achieved by overusing some essential features of postmodernity: narcissism, the imperative of breaking the limits and infantilisation, traits commonly united by an anti-thanatic orientation. The chapter refers especially to the postmodern corporate imaginary, because work in transnational corporations has specific features, which makes it unique in the general employment landscape. Infantilisation can be noticed at various levels of contemporary social life, ranging from the Western fascination with television, advertising, fantasy movies and the entertainment industry in general, to postponing the decisions that involve long-term responsibility. The importance of work in the contemporary imaginary can be explained through the fact that in a world where robust, metaphysical truths are destroyed, the individual is continuously menaced by insignificance, so that 'maintaining meaning and identity became ever more complex'.
