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Anarchism Quote by Pyotr Kropotkin

“If all the men and women in the countryside had their daily bread assured, and their daily needs already satisfied, who would work for our capitalist at a wage of half a crown a day, while the commodities one produces in a day sell in the market for a crown or more?” quote by Pyotr Kropotkin
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““If all the men and women in the countryside had their daily bread assured, and their daily needs already satisfied, who would work for our capitalist at a wage of half a crown a day, while the commodities one produces in a day sell in the market for a crown or more?””

Pyotr Kropotkin

About This Quote

Source Essay: Mutual Aid: A Factor of Evolution, Pyotr Kropotkin, 1902

If people's basic needs are met, they have no incentive to work under exploitative wages, undermining capitalist labor structures.

In simple terms: People won't work for low wages if needs are already met.

Key Takeaway

Ensure basic needs are satisfied to reduce exploitative labor.

Themes

economics labor socialism human needs

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical economic

When to use this quote

  • universal basic income proposals
  • community-supported agriculture
  • fair wage campaigns

Key Concepts

mutual aid economic justice labor exploitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can societies sustain universal provision?
  • What alternatives exist for those who still choose work?
A Different Perspective

Assumes universal provision is feasible and universally desired.

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