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If every tool, when ordered, or even of its own accord, could do the work that befits it... then there would be no need either of apprentices for the master workers or of slaves for the lords.
Aristotle
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that if all tools could perform their intended functions autonomously, there would be no need for skilled workers or subservient laborers.

Aristotle's quote reflects on the nature of labor and the division of work in society. It implies that the capability of tools and automation has a direct correlation with the roles and hierarchies that exist among people. Should tools and machines advance to a point where they could accomplish tasks without human intervention, the need for skilled workers and lower classes would diminish, leading to a rethinking of labor, expertise, and social structure.

Themes

ToolsLaborAutomationSocietyWork

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the impact of automation on jobs, this quote could illustrate the potential consequences of advanced technology on labor.

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