Does the job we do define who we are? And, if so, what does this largely Western mantra mean for the generation of youth faced with the prospect of mass unemployment for years to come?

As countries around Europe brace for a long period of austerity, high unemployment and falling living standards, many fear society is set to become harsher on those the system leaves behind.

On Monday's Riz Khan we talk to celebrated philosopher Alain de Botton in layman's terms about the challenges faced by society in the wake of the global financial crisis.

You can watch the show at 1930GMT on Al Jazeera English. Repeats will air next day at 0430GMT, 0830GMT and 1430GMT.