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It is, perhaps, impossible to proportion exactly the price…

“It is, perhaps, impossible to proportion exactly the price of labor to the profits it produces; and it will also be said, as an apology for the injustice, that were a workman to receive an increase of wages daily he would not save it against old age, nor be much better for it in the interim.” quote by Thomas Paine
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““It is, perhaps, impossible to proportion exactly the price of labor to the profits it produces; and it will also be said, as an apology for the injustice, that were a workman to receive an increase of wages daily he would not save it against old age, nor be much better for it in the interim.””

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

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

Labor’s value is hard to quantify against profit; daily wage increases may not secure future welfare.

In simple terms: Hard to match labor price to profit; daily raises may not help old age.

Key Takeaway

Consider long‑term financial security.

Themes

economics labor profit wages future planning

Mood

analytical concerned

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • employment contracts
  • retirement planning
  • policy debates
  • business management

Key Concepts

Marxism capitalism social justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can workers ensure future security?
  • What policies could balance wages and profit?
A Different Perspective

Short‑term wages don’t guarantee long‑term stability.

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