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Employment Quote by Samuel Gompers

“So long as there is one [person] who seeks employment and cannot find it, the hours of work are too long.” quote by Samuel Gompers
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“So long as there is one [person] who seeks employment and cannot find it, the hours of work are too long.”

Samuel Gompers

About This Quote

Source Speech: AFL-CIO Convention, 1912

When people cannot find jobs, long work hours become oppressive for those who are employed.

In simple terms: Unemployment makes long hours unfair.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for full employment.

Themes

labor rights employment fair wages working conditions

Mood

concerned determined

Type

activist political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • union negotiations
  • job creation programs
  • minimum wage discussions

Key Concepts

economic justice labor economics social welfare

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies ensure both employment and reasonable hours?
  • What policies best balance job availability with worker well‑being?
A Different Perspective

If jobs are plentiful, long hours may still be problematic for work-life balance.

3.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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