First of all: what is work? Work is of two kinds: first, altering the position of matter at or near the earth's surface relatively to other such matter; second, telling other people to do so. The first one is unpleasant and ill paid; the second is pleasant and highly paid.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Work comes in two forms: physically moving matter, which is often low‑paid and unpleasant, and directing others to do it, which is pleasant and well‑paid.
- In plain terms
- Physical labor is usually low paid; managing others is higher paid and more pleasant.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize the value disparity between manual and managerial work.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why are managerial jobs better compensated?
- How can manual workers gain recognition?
Another view
Not all managerial roles are pleasant, and some manual work is skilled and respected.
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