“Capital is reckless of the health or length of life of the laborer, unless under compulsion from society.”
- May 5, 1818 – March 14, 1883
- Born in the Kingdom of Prussia (Germany)
- Philosopher, economist, political thinker
- Wrote Das Kapital and laid the foundations for socialist and communist thought
table of contents
Quote
“Capital is reckless of the health or length of life of the laborer, unless under compulsion from society.”
Explanation
In this quote, Marx critiques the capitalist system for its disregard for the well-being of workers, highlighting that capital (the owners of production) is primarily concerned with profit, not the health or safety of the people who generate that wealth. The phrase “unless under compulsion from society” suggests that it is only when society or laws (typically through worker activism, unions, or government intervention) force capitalists to make changes, that they will consider improving conditions for workers. Marx underscores that under capitalism, the exploitation of labor is not limited to wages or working hours, but also extends to the physical and mental toll placed on workers, who are often subjected to dangerous and harmful conditions in the workplace without regard for their health or longevity.
Historically, this critique reflects the industrial revolution, when working conditions were harsh and labor laws were minimal or nonexistent. Factory workers, for example, often faced dangerous machinery, long hours, and poor working conditions that damaged their health. Capitalists at the time sought to maximize profit by cutting costs, including neglecting worker safety and reducing the expenses related to healthcare or compensation for injury. This reckless attitude toward workers’ lives and health was a hallmark of the capitalist system, where labor was treated as a commodity to be used up for profit without concern for the well-being of the individual worker.
In modern contexts, Marx’s critique remains relevant in discussions about worker’s rights, health and safety regulations, and corporate accountability. Today, many industries still prioritize profits over people, with workers in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture facing dangerous conditions. While modern labor laws in many countries mandate certain protections for workers, Marx’s argument points to the limits of legal regulation in addressing the root causes of worker exploitation. Even with regulations in place, workers’ health and safety can still be compromised when companies are allowed to self-regulate or when regulations are poorly enforced. Marx’s quote calls for a systematic change that would ensure worker welfare is a priority, rather than a mere afterthought to profit-making.
