“Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed. Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher consideration.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
Quote
“Labor is prior to, and independent of, capital. Capital is only the fruit of labor, and could never have existed if labor had not first existed. Labor is the superior of capital, and deserves much the higher consideration.”
Explanation
In this statement, Abraham Lincoln argues that labor—the work and effort of individuals—is the fundamental source of all wealth and economic value. He asserts that capital (wealth in the form of money, property, and resources) is a byproduct of labor and cannot exist without it. By emphasizing that labor is “superior” to capital, Lincoln elevates the value of working people and their contributions to society. He suggests that labor is not just the foundation of wealth but is also deserving of greater recognition and respect, as it is through human effort that capital gains its meaning and value.
Lincoln’s words reflect his broader economic philosophy, which was rooted in egalitarianism and a deep concern for the well-being of the working class. During his presidency, he faced numerous economic challenges, including the exploitation of labor during the Industrial Revolution and the vast wealth disparities between workers and owners. His commitment to abolishing slavery was part of a larger vision for a fairer society, where human dignity was recognized as superior to the economic power of property and capital. This quote is consistent with Lincoln’s beliefs in the importance of labor rights, a principle he acted upon through the Homestead Act and his advocacy for fair wages for soldiers and workers during the Civil War.
In modern times, this quote resonates with ongoing debates around labor rights, economic inequality, and the relationship between workers and employers. As technology continues to change the nature of labor and capital in the global economy, Lincoln’s words remind us of the enduring importance of valuing human labor over economic power. Issues such as wage disparity, union rights, and the rise of automation challenge society to consider how best to balance the interests of labor and capital. Lincoln’s view supports policies that ensure workers’ rights are protected and that the value of their labor is recognized, particularly in a world where economic inequality remains a pressing issue.
