"Without doubt, machinery has greatly increased the number of well-to-do idlers"

This quote by Karl Marx is a commentary on the results of industrialization and the intro of equipment in the 19th century. Marx is suggesting that the intro of machinery has enabled a higher number of individuals to prosper without having to work. This is because the intro of equipment has allowed for a greater production of products and services, which has enabled a greater number of people to prosper without needing to work. This has developed a class of individuals who are rich however do not have to work for their wealth. Marx is suggesting that this is an unfavorable repercussion of industrialization, as it has created a class of people who are not adding to the economy and are not working for their wealth. This has developed an imbalance in the economy, as those who are working are not being rewarded as much as those who are not. Marx is recommending that this is a concern that needs to be addressed in order to produce a more fair economy.