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About this quote

What does it mean?
Distribute resources based on individuals' abilities and needs.
In plain terms
Give each person work they can do and give them what they need.
What can you take from it?
Design systems that match contribution with need.

Where it applies

  • community planning
  • welfare policy

Putting it to work

  • assess abilities
  • allocate resources by need

Questions to consider

  • How to measure abilities fairly?
  • What safeguards prevent abuse?

Another view

Implementation can be complex and may discourage incentives.

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