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Akin to the idea that time is money is the concept, less…

“Akin to the idea that time is money is the concept, less spoken but as commonly assumed, that we may be adequately represented by money. The giving of money has thus become our characteristic virtue. But to give is not to do. The money is given in lieu of action, thought, care, time.” quote by Wendell Berry
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“Akin to the idea that time is money is the concept, less spoken but as commonly assumed, that we may be adequately represented by money. The giving of money has thus become our characteristic virtue. But to give is not to do. The money is given in lieu of action, thought, care, time.”

Wendell Berry

About This Quote

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

Money often substitutes for genuine effort, reducing actions to transactions.

In simple terms: Money replaces real work.

Key Takeaway

Value true effort over payment.

Themes

materialism authenticity values

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

observation critique

When to use this quote

  • charity
  • volunteering
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

economics philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What actions are worth doing without pay?
  • How does reliance on money affect community?
A Different Perspective

Money cannot replace personal involvement.

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