The tech billionaire behind Twitter, Elon Musk, who also leads companies such as Tesla and SpaceX, has elevated the topic of remote work into a core issue he has connected to the social platform since its recent acquisition. He describes the question as morally charged and insists that it goes beyond simple efficiency concerns.
In a conversation with CNBC, Musk framed the whole idea of remote work as something that mirrors a modern-day display of privilege, likening it to a hollow display of aristocratic indulgence. He suggested that the arrangement benefits some workers while others must report to a physical workplace every day.
He also singled out a group he calls the laptop class, arguing that people who must operate factories, prepare meals, or repair homes cannot work remotely. This framing positions location as a social divide rather than a mere logistical choice.
Musk went further, saying that while some dreams about work from home feel disconnected from the real world, the broader point goes beyond productivity. He asserts that the stance is morally questionable when viewed against the needs of many workers who rely on in-person jobs to earn a living and keep daily life running smoothly.
On the topic of personal work habits, Musk noted that he follows a demanding routine, often working seven days a week. Yet he stressed that his goal is not to push others into the same schedule. He advocates for a standard workweek of about 40 hours in the office, emphasizing balance rather than imitation. His comments reflect a tension between high personal output and a desire for others to have a reasonable, sustainable workload. This discussion adds fuel to ongoing debates in Canada, the United States, and beyond about how much remote work should shape modern employment policies, especially for industries that rely on hands-on operations. The exchange, reported by CNBC, continues to spark questions about workplace expectations, productivity, and fairness across different sectors. [CNBC interview attribution]