Developing Quote by Michael Spence
“Labor, no matter how inexpensive, will become a less important asset for growth and employment expansion, with labor-intensive, process-oriented manufacturing becoming a less effective way for early-stage developing countries to enter the global economy.”
About This Quote
Source Paper: "The Future of Labor in Emerging Economies", 2020
Labor’s diminishing role in growth as economies shift to capital‑intensive, technology‑driven production.
In simple terms: Labor becomes less central as tech and capital dominate growth.
Invest in technology and skill development.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- manufacturing strategy
- education reform
- foreign investment
- policy planning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What policies can balance tech adoption with job creation?
- How can developing nations protect workers?
May overlook labor’s social value and inequality issues.