"These are all tasks that I must do - not doing them would mean that I am simply not doing my job... The utility of that sixtieth work hour is so much higher than the tenth or twentieth because I can use it do my own research."

I don't think he makes a very good case here. The twentieth hour of work could mean the difference between doing his job and failing at it. The sixtieth could make him more prestigious.

There is a good case to be made for increasing marginal work utility, but it's much easier to make in terms of basic numbers in an ordinary market economy: working more hours often leads to a higher average hourly rate. For instance, if you are a consultant, and you spend extra time writing books, you may become a recognized expert and be able to demand much higher rates.

That makes it sound like overwork is logical. But this calculation targets only money, and money has a decreasing marginal utility. And many other aspects of life also have a decreasing marginal utility, which is why people lead varied lives.

So, this problem has more to do with tunnel vision about your goals than with a fundamental curse of life. Keep at least a few goals in mind most of the time, and that will prevent you from falling into this trap.

My list would be something like (not necessarily in this order): health, family, friends, financial security, achievement, helping others, and making improvements for future generations. Usually I'm falling behind in a couple of these areas at any given time, and that helps me see what I need to do to change.