Marx’s quote, “There is a physical relation between physical things. But it is different with commodities,” is a commentary on the nature of commodities in a capitalist society. The first part of the quote refers to the tangible, physical relationship between objects. For instance, a tree and an axe have a physical relation, one can be used to cut down the other.

However, when Marx says, “But it is different with commodities,” he’s referring to the more abstract, intangible relationships that exist in an economy based on commodity exchange. Commodities, in economic terms, are goods or services that are bought and sold, often in large quantities. The value of these commodities is not determined by their physical properties or their usefulness, but by the labor required to produce them and the demand for them in the market.

This is a key concept in Marx’s critique of capitalism. He argues that in a capitalist society, commodities acquire a kind of social power over people, as their perceived value can often overshadow their practical utility. This leads to a form of alienation, where individuals are disconnected from the true value of their labor and the goods they produce.

Applying this concept to today’s world, we can see the truth of Marx’s words in many areas. For instance, the stock market is a perfect example of a place where the value of commodities (in this case, shares in companies) can fluctuate wildly based on perception and speculation, rather than any physical change in the commodities themselves.

In terms of personal development, understanding this concept can help individuals to question and challenge the values assigned by society. It can encourage people to focus less on material wealth and more on intrinsic values, such as personal growth, relationships, and experiences. It can also inspire individuals to strive for a more equitable society, where the value of labor and commodities is not distorted by market forces.