Indeed, only what does not have a tangible measure can easily be exaggerated in importance. This is the basic reason why the privileged elite in every society has always consisted—and, I submit, will always consist—of members who perform unproductive services under one form or another. Whatever the title under which this elite may receive its share, this share will never be that of worker’s wage—even if, as is possible, it may be called by that name.

Nicholas Georgescu-Roegen