When you overpay small people you frighten them. They know…
“When you overpay small people you frighten them. They know that their merits or activities entitle them to no such sums as they are receiving. As a result their boss soars out of economic into magic significance.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Overpaying low‑level workers can inflate their self‑importance, disrupting hierarchy.
In simple terms: Giving too much money to junior staff can cause problems.
Reward proportionally to role.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- corporate bonuses
- freelance contracts
- team incentives
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance fair pay and hierarchy?
- What alternatives to cash rewards exist?
May create resentment among peers.