means of production
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means of production
A term from economics that refers to the material resources necessary for the production of goods and services. These include, for example, machines, tools, factory buildings, and raw materials.
In der marxistischen Theorie ist der Besitz der Produktionsmittel entscheidend für die Klassenverhältnisse.
In Marxist theory, ownership of the means of production is decisive for class relations.
The word is composed of three parts: 'Produktion' (production), the linking '-s', and 'Mittel' (means/resources). So it literally means 'means for production' and refers to all resources needed to produce goods.
Der Staat kontrolliert in diesem System alle wichtigen Produktionsmittel.
In this system, the state controls all important means of production.
'Produktionsmittel' (means of production) is a technical term from economics and the social sciences, especially from political economy. In normal everyday life, this word is rarely used.
Im Wirtschaftsunterricht analysierten wir die Verteilung der Produktionsmittel.
In economics class, we analyzed the distribution of the means of production.
Although there is a singular form, the word is very often used in the plural ('die Produktionsmittel' — the means of production). This is because it usually refers to a totality of resources such as machines, buildings, and raw materials.
Das Unternehmen investierte in neue, moderne Produktionsmittel.
The company invested in new, modern means of production.
consumer good
'das Produktionsmittel' and 'das Konsumgut' both belong to economics, but they are in clear contrast. A 'Produktionsmittel' is used to produce something or make a service possible, for example a machine, a tool, or raw materials. A 'Konsumgut' is bought by people and used or consumed directly, for example clothing, food, or a phone. The words can be confused because both can be things or goods. A simple question helps: Does it serve production? Then it is a 'Produktionsmittel'. Is it bought and used for personal needs? Then it is a 'Konsumgut'.
Für die Bäckerei ist der neue Ofen ein wichtiges Produktionsmittel.
For the bakery, the new oven is an important means of production.
Ein Paar Schuhe ist meist ein Konsumgut und kein Mittel zur Produktion.
A pair of shoes is usually a consumer good, not a means of production.