Wages is a cunning device of the devil, for the benefit of…
“Wages is a cunning device of the devil, for the benefit of tender consciences, who would retain all the advantages of the slave system, without the expense, trouble, and odium of being slave-holders.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Wages are portrayed as a manipulative tool that benefits those with gentle consciences while preserving slave‑like oppression without its overt costs.
In simple terms: Wages can mask exploitation.
Key Takeaway
Question the moral cost of labor systems.
Themes
economics
morality
power
exploitation
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- workplace
- policy reform
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
capitalism
ethical labor
Questions to Reflect On
- Is all compensation inherently exploitative?
- How can wages be made just?
A Different Perspective
May ignore positive aspects of fair wages.