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Job Quote by Stephen J. Dubner

“If we want politics to be the kind of arena where you're attracting and encouraging really competent people who do a job well because that's what they're supposed to do, then you have to pay them a salary that's commensurate with that.” quote by Stephen J. Dubner
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“If we want politics to be the kind of arena where you're attracting and encouraging really competent people who do a job well because that's what they're supposed to do, then you have to pay them a salary that's commensurate with that.”

Stephen J. Dubner

About This Quote

Source Book: "Freakonomics" by Stephen J. Dubner, 2005 (chapter on labor markets)

Competent workers need salaries that reflect their skill and responsibility; otherwise talent drifts away.

In simple terms: Pay matches competence.

Key Takeaway

Offer fair, competitive pay.

Themes

labor economics talent retention fair compensation politics

Mood

pragmatic analytical

Type

policy economic

When to use this quote

  • government hiring
  • private sector recruitment
  • non‑profit staffing
  • tech industry

Key Concepts

human capital theory incentive structures salary benchmarking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does salary affect job performance?
  • What are alternatives to high salaries for talent?
A Different Perspective

Budget constraints may limit salary adjustments.

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