Blood, Sweat, and Tears: An Analogy for Measuring Economic Contribution

American Thinker ^ | 17 Mar, 2021 | Joel Pack

[MtnClimber]

How do we tell who is contributing his "fair share" to our dynamic economy?

Most Americans will be familiar with the phrase "blood, sweat, and tears" and have probably used it to describe their own contributions at some point. The phrase is commonly understood as hyperbole for determined effort, but, I believe, it also provides a useful, metaphorically graduated scale for measuring and ranking different types of economic contribution. With all the talk about "fair share" in current political discussions, I think it is useful to talk about the different ways we contribute to society through our economic activity. Without a foundational understanding of the markedly different types of contributions we make to the creation and maintenance of society, any discussion of "fair share" will be uninformed and potentially dangerous.

There are three distinct levels of contribution to economic activity described quite well by each of the terms in the phrase "blood, sweat, and tears." Differences in the cognitive demands and the scarcity of certain skills certainly affect status and remuneration. However, I believe that these differences are more usefully understood as continuums

SNIP

Sweat

Anyone who exchanges activity for income contributes his sweat to the economy. While physical toil may be involved, it is not necessary.

SNIP

Tears

Tears are the investment of conscious energy beyond what is required for the completion of assigned tasks. Tears are a great metaphor for this level, which requires the person maintain a sense of stewardship over the company that does not end with a shift.

SNIP

Blood

The most valuable and most rare contribution one can make is his blood. Blood is a metaphor for real investment and risk. Spending accumulated wealth and risking financial and personal ruin are the ultimate form of commitment to a business.

[MtnClimber]

"Examining these levels from least to greatest, will provide people with a framework with which to guide honest discussions of contribution and reward. "

Politicians seem to be trying to shortcut this to get their power and wealth and don't appreciate those who do it the honest way.

[strider44]

It’s simpler really. You can just say “Makers” or “Takers” and leave it at that.

Once it’s more “Takers” we’re toast. Unfortunately we may be there already.

[Alas Babylon!]

Blood, Sweat and Tears:

What goes up Must come
Spinnin’ wheel got to go ‘round
Talkin’ ‘bout your troubles it’s a cryin’ sin
work real hard and pay your taxes let the spinnin’ wheel spin

And when I die, and when I’m gone,
There’ll be one more democrat voter
In this world to carry on,
to carry on.

[moovova]

You made me so very happy.

[Alas Babylon!]

I can’t wait to,
Work and pay taxes!!!