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“But it is clear that the price of labour has no necessary connection with the price of food, since it depends entirely on the supply of labourers compared with the demand.” quote by David Ricardo
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“But it is clear that the price of labour has no necessary connection with the price of food, since it depends entirely on the supply of labourers compared with the demand.”

David Ricardo

About This Quote

Source Book: Principles of Political Economy and Taxation, 1817

Labor wages are set by the balance of workers available versus jobs, not by food costs.

In simple terms: Wages depend on worker supply and demand, not food prices.

Key Takeaway

Consider labor market dynamics when analyzing wages.

Themes

economics labor markets supply and demand

Mood

analytical neutral

Type

economic theoretical

When to use this quote

  • policy negotiations
  • career planning
  • business budgeting
  • inflation analysis

Key Concepts

Classical economics price theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do modern labor shortages affect this principle?
A Different Perspective

Does ignoring food price relations oversimplify wage causes?

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