Capitalist Quote by Ernest Mandel
“Workers do not strike every day, they cannot do that the way they function in the capitalist economy. The way they have to live by selling their labor power makes that impossible.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Origins of Capitalism, 1975
Workers cannot constantly strike because their survival depends on selling labor, limiting collective action.
In simple terms: Workers need jobs, so they can’t strike often.
Key Takeaway
Balance labor rights with economic necessity.
Themes
economics
labor
capitalism
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
political
economic
When to use this quote
- union organizing
- policy advocacy
- workplace negotiations
Key Concepts
class struggle
labor markets
Questions to Reflect On
- How can workers protest without losing income?
- What alternatives exist to striking?
A Different Perspective
Strikes may still be essential for systemic change.
