SHOP TALKS ON ECONOMICS
31
Figure B is equal to A because it contains 3 hours of labor. It represents the value returned to you by the boss in the shape of gold or wages.
We know that A is equal to B. And we know that C contains three times the value of A or B. We
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/46/Shop_Talks_on_Economics%2C_Pg_38.png/250px-Shop_Talks_on_Economics%2C_Pg_38.png)
know also that the capitalist is constantly trying to prolong C into ten or even eleven hours, and that capitalists cut wages whenever and wherever possible. It is only by constant struggle that the working class
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/55/Shop_Talks_on_Economics%2C_Pg_31.png/500px-Shop_Talks_on_Economics%2C_Pg_31.png)
has been able to maintain its position, to secure a, perhaps normal, increase in wages, or a shorter workday.
It is self-evident that if you secure more wages (B) there will be less of the value of your product (C)