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The idea that to make a man work you've got to hold gold…

“The idea that to make a man work you've got to hold gold in front of his eyes is a growth, not an axiom. We've done that for so long that we've forgotten there's any other way.” quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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“The idea that to make a man work you've got to hold gold in front of his eyes is a growth, not an axiom. We've done that for so long that we've forgotten there's any other way.”

F. Scott Fitzgerald

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Motivating workers by dangling wealth is a learned tactic, not a universal truth; we’ve forgotten alternatives.

In simple terms: Gold as motivation is a learned myth.

Key Takeaway

Explore diverse motivational strategies.

Themes

economics motivation workplace

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

business psychology

When to use this quote

  • management
  • human resources
  • leadership

Key Concepts

gold incentive growth axiom

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you beyond money?
  • Can we motivate without material rewards?
A Different Perspective

Some find intrinsic motivation more effective.

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