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Productive Labor Under Capitalism
- Under capitalism, productive laborers are defined by surplus value generation, not just producing things.
- Society values workers only when they produce beyond their needs, benefiting capitalists.
Capitalism's Unexpected Origins
- Contrary to expectations, capitalism emerged in less fertile regions, requiring harder labor.
- These 'temperate zones' necessitated longer work hours and less free time, fostering hierarchical cooperation.
The Flawed Assumption of Natural Capitalism
- Classical economists mistakenly viewed surplus value and capitalism as natural.
- Marx argues that this assumption stems from being born into the system, ignoring historical instances of self-subsistence.