To each according to his contribution facts for kids

The idea of "To each according to his contribution" is a principle about how people should be rewarded for their work. It suggests that in a society moving from capitalism (where private businesses own most things) to socialism (where the community owns things) and then to communism (a system with no private ownership), people should get paid based on how much they contribute.

This idea was discussed by important thinkers like David Ricardo (1772-1823), an economist. He started a way of thinking called Ricardian socialism. Many people in the labour movement (groups working for workers' rights) also believed in this. Figures like Ferdinand Lassalle (1825–1864) and Eugen Dühring (1833-1921) shared similar thoughts. Later, Vladimir Lenin was the first to say this idea was a key part of Marxist theory.

Some thinkers, like the American anarchist Benjamin Tucker, who believed in Libertarian socialist ideas, said that socialism means workers should get the full value of what they produce. This would stop unfair practices where some people get money without working for it, often called "exploitation."

What "To Each According to His Contribution" Means

This phrase means that in a socialist society, workers get paid and receive benefits based on how much work they do and how valuable that work is. So, if someone works very hard and produces a lot, they would earn more than someone who produces less.

Rewarding Hard Work

The principle also suggests that harder jobs should get more rewards. A job might be considered harder if it needs a lot of training, is very intense, or has dangers. The goal is to encourage people to work harder, longer, and more effectively. This idea actually comes from capitalism, but some thinkers like Karl Marx believed it would eventually disappear. They thought that as work becomes more automated and enjoyable, and as goods become plentiful, people wouldn't need these kinds of incentives anymore.

Ownership of Production

In capitalism, the tools and factories used to make goods (called the means of production) are mostly owned by a few wealthy people. These owners, sometimes called the bourgeoisie, often live off the work of others. Socialism aims to change this by making the means of production owned by everyone in the community. This way, they become a common good for all.

Related Ideas

• From each according to his ability, to each according to his need
• He who does not work, neither shall he eat

Images for kids

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  A robot representing automation, which could make work more enjoyable in the future.

See also

In Spanish: A cada cual según su aporte para niños