Trade is the original fundamental social interaction: A give and take relationship. It points to existential needs as the origin of social organization. The desire to share with others, receive from them and give them. The need to gain recognition, and receive feedback.

Trade places (the absurd) existence in relation to purpose, as valuable. Thoughts, experimentations, aspirations, and time become commodities and products. Knowing the world leads to the production of knowledge: What can be shared, exchanged, and converted? What has a place and function in the world?

Trade is the basis for the development of civilization. The basis for the transgression from the natural to the imaginary, from commodity to money (economy). From the personal to the instrumental. Ultimately, the ability to initiate, leverage, and market ourselves within the natural game of “give and take” turns us into objects and commodities.

Actions that manifest passion are integrated into a mechanism of production, reproduction, and replication. Subject to the values of efficiency and benefit. Subject to a plan.

And from this moment on, everything becomes a commodity in the exchange market of imaginary values. Mirage cities are built on exploitation and oppression, blood and sweat. Work becomes a central element of our identity, establishing our self-worth and status. The marketplace is an opportunity to refine and decipher the values of use and benefit, exploitation and production. Refine and decipher the value of time and of sharing.

He who doesn’t work, does not eat. (Analytical proverb)