Business Quote by Michael Medved
““Both adults have always worked," observes Cox, writing with business journalist Richard Alm. "Running a household entails a daunting list of chores: cooking, gardening, child care, shopping, washing and ironing, financial management, ferrying family members to ballet lessons and soccer practice... the idea that people at home don't work isn't just insulting to women, who do most of the housework. It also misses how specialization contributes to higher and higher living standards. At one time, both adults worked exclusively at home. The man constructed buildings, tilled the land, raised livestock. The woman prepared meals, preserved food, looked after the children. Living standards rarely raised above the subsistence level." But as men went to work outside the home- "gaining specialized skills and earning income that allowed the family to buy what it didn't have the time, energy or ability to make at home"-- living standards rose. ------ Michael Medved quoting Cox and Alm, "10 Big Lies about America" page 224””
About This Quote
Source Book: 10 Big Lies about America, Michael Medved, 2012
Historical analysis of gendered labor, showing both adults traditionally contributed, and specialization raised living standards.
In simple terms: Both genders have always worked; specialization improves life.
Key Takeaway
Recognize all work’s value.
Themes
labor
gender roles
economic development
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
educational
critical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- family budgeting
- education curricula
Key Concepts
historical economics
social equity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies better value unpaid work?
- What policies support equitable labor recognition?
A Different Perspective
Modern work structures may still undervalue domestic labor.
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