Meaning: The quote "Unionization, as opposed to communism, presupposes the relation of employment; it is based upon the wage system and it recognizes fully and unreservedly the institution of private property and the right to investment profit," by John L. Lewis, the leader of the United Mine Workers of America, provides insight into the fundamental principles underlying the concept of unionization as distinguished from communism. This quote reflects the perspective of a prominent labor leader in the 20th century and sheds light on the core principles of unionization and its relationship to communism, employment, wage system, private property, and investment profit.

Unionization, as articulated by John L. Lewis, is a concept that presupposes the existence of an employment relationship. It is a process through which workers join together to form a collective bargaining unit to negotiate with employers for better wages, working conditions, and benefits. The primary goal of unionization is to protect the rights and interests of the workers within the framework of the employment relationship. This stands in contrast to the principles of communism, which advocates for the abolition of the wage system and the establishment of a classless society where the means of production are owned collectively.

The quote also emphasizes that unionization is based on the wage system. In this context, the wage system refers to the method by which workers are compensated for their labor. Through collective bargaining and negotiations, unions strive to secure fair and equitable wages for their members. This highlights the central role of economic relations within the framework of unionization, as opposed to the fundamental reorganization of economic structures advocated by communism.

Furthermore, the quote underscores that unionization fully and unreservedly recognizes the institution of private property and the right to investment profit. This reflects the acknowledgment of the existing economic system and the role of private ownership of property and capital within the framework of unionized labor. Unlike communism, which seeks to abolish private property and redistribute wealth, unionization operates within the established framework of private property rights and investment profit. This recognition reflects a pragmatic approach to labor relations, acknowledging the prevailing economic system while seeking to improve the conditions of workers within that system.

In essence, John L. Lewis's quote encapsulates the key distinctions between unionization and communism. While communism seeks to fundamentally transform the economic and social order, including the abolition of private property and the wage system, unionization operates within the existing framework of employment relations, wage systems, and private property rights. It represents a pragmatic and incremental approach to addressing the needs and rights of workers within the context of the prevailing economic system.

Overall, this quote serves as a reminder of the historical and ideological context in which the labor movement and unionization have evolved. It underscores the nuanced relationship between unionization, communism, employment, wage systems, private property, and investment profit, providing valuable insights into the principles and perspectives that have shaped the labor movement and the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and economic justice.

In conclusion, John L. Lewis's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the principles underlying unionization and its relationship to communism, employment, wage systems, private property, and investment profit. It provides a valuable lens through which to understand the complexities of labor relations and the historical context in which these principles have been articulated and contested.