The objective in this paper is to underline how the modern principles of freedom and individuality are the basis of the metaphysics of work developed by Georg Simmel. The configuration of these principles, unrolled on the ideals of singularity and authenticity, determined an imposition to the modern individuals the self-experimentation and self- achievement, which brings paradoxical ontological consequences. With the help of Axel Honneth’s theory, is possible to understand how the promise of qualitative freedom is transformed in a kind of negative freedom that is fundamental to the subtle legitimation of contemporary capitalism.
