Labor value truly is more personally rewarding than exchange value, in addition to being a truer expression of fair market dynamics.
Recently I’ve been really moved by personal stories shared here about folks actually changing their lives to become more in line with socialist values, often at a monetary loss. Wanted to vibe on that since I’m doing the same. Thank you to all of those with the courage of conviction to seek the politic you desire in the world.
After 20 years in medical technology I’ll be leaving with debt. The american dream is just that, not a reality.
I was able to find work with a small farming collective and it’s simply so powerful to experience a direct economy. We fold our profit back into the collective to procure additional means of production. I’m a little at odds with inserting myself at the level of petit bourgeoisie, though I am starting anew as an apprentice.
Labor controls every aspect of farming, barring highly automated methods. It’s so rewarding to see your labor yield returns. And that personal satisfaction is rocket fuel for productivity.
I went from a condo (my first home purchased at 34y/o) to living in a small RV. From an operating room to the field. From $150K to a barely livable wage with crop share. I’m so happy.
Be brave. The water is warm. For me the moral value of labor is real, though I’d love to hear the community’s thought on that.
I’m not sacrificing. I’m much more happy to be in accordance with my values.
It’s not a call to action, more a vibe with something already happening.
as you say, agriculture has shifted in its role over time. I see this shift as labor vs commodity exchange. That is my political position