Nothing increases the number of jobs so rapidly as…
““Nothing increases the number of jobs so rapidly as labor-saving machinery, because it releases wants theretofore unknown, by permitting leisure. In a pre-industrial economy, jobs are made by simple division of labor; acquired skill and organization permit some economy of effort; but on the whole people literally have not enough surplus energy to want much. What does any person who is thoroughly fatigued want? The answer is just nothing.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Technological advances create new desires, but without surplus energy people cannot desire much, leading to stagnation in employment.
In simple terms: New tech creates wants, but fatigue limits demand.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of demand when energy is low.
Themes
technology
economics
labor
desire
energy
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
economic
When to use this quote
- policy planning
- economic forecasting
- business strategy
- workforce development
Key Concepts
surplus energy
leisure
industrialization
fatigue
Questions to Reflect On
- How does energy surplus affect job creation?
- Can leisure be increased without harming productivity?
A Different Perspective
Even with new machines, without sufficient leisure and energy, job creation stalls.