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It is just an academic theory, not holy gospel (with a long "Validity and criticisms" section in Wikipedia).

I think salary IS a motivational factor in real life, as for many humans it is a yardstick of superiority compared to other humans (whether it is right or wrong is another matter).

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Its more than just a yardstick for comparison. I know I want to be able to buy the things I want (whether that be going out to dinner more often, buying a new car at 5 years instead of 10, etc). If my salary isn't enough to do those things without major sacrifices elsewhere, then its at least as important a motivator to me as other things.

I agree. Salary is a motivational factor - at least indirectly. It's a status symbol. It shows the company values you.

I can only imagine a world without monetary payment, in some form, for the extremes of far too little and more than enough.

Thinking about the brighter side of things I suppose that in the more than enough side of things you would be paid with happiness. That to be wealthy would be to have something you enjoy doing all of the time. Success however, would be measured in a currency that is more difficult to track, respect.

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