A value-oriented distinction between productive and unproductive labour

Abstract

This paper offers a new ‘position’ in the distinction between productive and unproductive labour, using two opposing approaches to the matter. Shaikh and Tonak ground their argument on the concept of productive labour in general, and support the need for an ‘extensive’ classification of unproductive labour. In Laibman's view, on the other hand, the distinction should be abandoned. In this paper, I argue that both approaches are founded on the same use-value criterion. This non-capitalist criterion is inappropriate for the analysis. In contrast, I offer a distinction based on specifically capitalist criteria; the relevance of the analysis is placed on the production of value rather than use value.