finncullen | The Obvious Flaw (Reply)

From each according to his abilities, to each according to his needs.
-Karl Marx

The intent behind this is of course laudable – the idea that society will provide for individuals according to their needs.
However on closer inspection surely it falls apart? Unless the human race is suddenly replaced by a species of entirely altruistic individuals willing to subvert their own desires then they will soon reach the following conclusions:

1. No matter how great my abilities and effort I will not benefit more than those with less ability or inclination to excel.. therefore why make the effort?
2. The greater my need (or perceived need) the more I will benefit from society’s largesse.

So the natural, logical and human response would be to:

a) Stop striving to excel – effort without reward is pointless
b) Emphasise need and dependency in order to gain more of what you want

What sort of society would that build? Whiners, dependents and the demise of the talented at the expense of the mediocre.

Look around...