The question of whether capitalist exploitation of workers is natural, reasonable, and justified has long been a topic of debate. A recent article published by Wu You Zong, a Chinese online platform, highlights the ongoing discourse on this issue, particularly focusing on the arguments made by some individuals who defend capitalist exploitation.
The article, titled Is Capitalist Exploitation of Workers ‘Natural, Reasonable, and Justified’? by Hubei Shifeng, argues that the concept of capitalist exploitation is fundamentally unethical and should not be justified under any circumstances. According to the author, exploitation refers to the act of appropriating the surplus value created by workers through the ownership of production means, without providing fair compensation for their labor.
The author asserts that capitalists, who do not engage in manual labor themselves, yet reap the benefits of workers’ labor, are exploiting the working class. They argue that this exploitation is characterized by a disregard for morality and the law, as it involves the unfair and unearned accumulation of wealth.
One of the key arguments made by the defenders of capitalist exploitation is that the absence of explicit legal prohibitions against such practices renders exploitation legitimate. However, the author argues that this reasoning is flawed. They contend that the lack of legal restrictions does not necessarily make exploitation morally or legally permissible.
The article further discusses the issue of overtime work, with the author arguing that the low wages paid to workers and the pressure to work long hours are forms of exploitation. They emphasize that the value created by workers during overtime far exceeds the compensation they receive, thus making the practice inherently exploitative.
The article also addresses the claim that there is no such thing as a capitalist in China, as some individuals have argued. The author argues that this statement is contradictory, as defenders of capitalist exploitation simultaneously admit the existence of capitalists while denying their role in exploiting workers.
The article concludes by emphasizing the need to challenge the notion of capitalist exploitation and to advocate for ethical and legal reforms that protect the rights and well-being of workers. It argues that the defense of capitalist exploitation is detrimental to the interests of the working class and should be opposed.
In summary, the article by Hubei Shifeng raises important questions about the ethical and legal implications of capitalist exploitation of workers. While some argue that exploitation is a natural and justified aspect of capitalism, the author and many others maintain that it is an unethical and unacceptable practice that must be addressed and opposed.
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