Meaning: This quote, attributed to F. Scott Fitzgerald, reflects on the widely held belief that material rewards, such as gold or money, are the primary motivators for people to work. Fitzgerald suggests that this concept is not inherent or fundamental ("a growth, not an axiom"), but rather a product of societal conditioning and historical precedent. He further asserts that this mindset has become so ingrained in our collective consciousness that we have overlooked alternative motivations for work.

Fitzgerald, a prominent American author known for his exploration of the Jazz Age and the complexities of the American Dream, often delved into themes of wealth, ambition, and the pursuit of success. This quote aligns with his broader examination of the impact of materialism and the quest for riches on individuals and society at large.

The notion that financial incentives are the primary drivers of work has long been entrenched in economic and psychological theories. Classical economic theory, as exemplified by Adam Smith's concept of self-interest driving economic behavior, has historically emphasized the pursuit of profit and material gain as fundamental to human motivation. Similarly, behavioral psychology has often focused on the role of rewards and punishments in shaping behavior, reinforcing the idea that external incentives are crucial for eliciting effort and productivity.

However, contemporary research in the fields of psychology, behavioral economics, and organizational behavior has increasingly challenged this conventional wisdom. Studies have revealed that while financial rewards can be effective in certain circumstances, they are not always the most powerful or sustainable motivators for work. In fact, factors such as autonomy, mastery, purpose, and a sense of belonging have been identified as significant drivers of intrinsic motivation and job satisfaction.

One prominent theory that aligns with Fitzgerald's sentiment is self-determination theory, which posits that individuals are inherently motivated by the psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. According to this framework, people are driven by a desire to feel in control of their actions, to experience a sense of mastery and growth, and to connect with others in meaningful ways. While external rewards can serve as extrinsic motivators, they are not sufficient to foster sustained engagement and fulfillment in the absence of these intrinsic psychological needs being met.

Furthermore, the concept of "incentive-centered thinking" has been critiqued for its potential to undermine creativity, intrinsic interest in tasks, and ethical behavior. When individuals are solely focused on external rewards, they may become less inclined to pursue activities for the inherent enjoyment or societal benefit they provide. This can have detrimental effects on innovation, personal development, and the overall well-being of individuals and communities.

In the realm of organizational management, researchers and practitioners have increasingly recognized the importance of cultivating a work environment that nurtures intrinsic motivation. Strategies such as job crafting, empowerment, and fostering a sense of purpose have been shown to enhance employee engagement and performance. Moreover, companies that prioritize values-driven cultures and social responsibility have demonstrated the capacity to attract and retain talent, as individuals seek workplaces that align with their personal principles and aspirations beyond financial remuneration.

In conclusion, Fitzgerald's quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the pervasive assumption that material rewards are the primary drivers of human effort and labor. It encourages us to reexamine our deeply ingrained beliefs about motivation and to explore alternative perspectives that acknowledge the multifaceted nature of human aspirations and the diverse array of factors that inspire meaningful work. By recognizing the significance of intrinsic motivation, autonomy, and purpose, we can cultivate environments that foster not only productivity but also personal fulfillment and societal progress.