I think that most people would prefer a job doing something they feel is useful. Heck, I'd take some moderate risks to feel like I was earning my keep.
I think this is why most public assistance programs in America have been tied to 'service' of one kind or another. It's why social security is at least partly tied to your taxes while you were working. We've got our pride; and yeah, I agree it's irrational, but that's just the way many of us are.
Actually, I got one of those hiring bonuses last year; I mean, I didn't know that I'd get it, and it was only a few hundred dollars, so it didn't factor in to the hiring decision, but I did make someone an actual employee, and my accountant told me I got a credit for it. (The guy was a contractor before, but he did get a substantial raise, and a steady salary rather than a varying paycheck based on hours worked.)
I think this is why most public assistance programs in America have been tied to 'service' of one kind or another. It's why social security is at least partly tied to your taxes while you were working. We've got our pride; and yeah, I agree it's irrational, but that's just the way many of us are.
Actually, I got one of those hiring bonuses last year; I mean, I didn't know that I'd get it, and it was only a few hundred dollars, so it didn't factor in to the hiring decision, but I did make someone an actual employee, and my accountant told me I got a credit for it. (The guy was a contractor before, but he did get a substantial raise, and a steady salary rather than a varying paycheck based on hours worked.)