Meaning: Karl Marx, a German philosopher, economist, and revolutionary socialist, made this statement to highlight the impact of division of labor and machinery on workers' wages. The quote emphasizes how the increasing division of labor and the widespread application of machinery in production processes lead to heightened competition among workers and subsequently result in a reduction of their wages.

The concept of division of labor, as discussed by Marx, refers to the specialization of tasks and roles within the production process. It involves breaking down the production of goods or services into smaller, more specialized tasks, with different workers responsible for specific aspects of the overall process. This division allows for increased efficiency and productivity, as workers become highly skilled in their particular tasks. However, according to Marx, this division also has negative consequences for the workers, particularly in terms of their wages.

When the division of labor is combined with the application of machinery, the efficiency of production processes can be further enhanced. Machinery can automate tasks, increase output, and reduce the need for manual labor in certain areas of production. While this technological advancement can lead to overall economic growth and increased output, Marx argues that it also exacerbates competition among workers and contributes to the shrinking of their wages.

The competitive dynamic among workers arises from the fact that the division of labor and the use of machinery can lead to a surplus of labor in certain areas of production. As tasks become more specialized and mechanized, the demand for a particular type of labor may decrease relative to the available supply of workers capable of performing those tasks. This oversupply of labor can drive down wages as workers compete for employment opportunities, leading to a situation where wages "shrink together," as Marx describes.

Marx's assertion about the impact of the division of labor and machinery on wages reflects his broader critique of capitalism. He viewed these developments as integral to the functioning of capitalist economies, where the pursuit of profit drives the adoption of technologies and organizational methods that prioritize efficiency and cost reduction. In this context, Marx saw the declining wages of workers as a consequence of the capitalist mode of production, wherein the interests of capital owners and the imperatives of competition perpetuate the exploitation of labor.

From a historical perspective, Marx's observations about the impact of the division of labor and machinery on wages have been the subject of ongoing debates and discussions. Proponents of Marx's views argue that his analysis remains relevant today, particularly in the context of globalization, technological advancements, and the increasing precarity of employment for many workers. Critics, on the other hand, contend that Marx's analysis overlooks the potential for technological progress and economic growth to ultimately benefit workers through higher living standards and improved opportunities.

In conclusion, Karl Marx's quote draws attention to the implications of the division of labor and the application of machinery on workers' wages. His analysis underscores the potential for increased competition among workers and the subsequent reduction of wages as a result of these developments. Whether one agrees with Marx's perspective or not, his insights continue to provoke important discussions about the relationship between technological change, labor dynamics, and the distribution of wealth and power within capitalist societies.