Capital section 3

The relative form of Value


The elementary expression of value lies hidden in the value relation of 2 commodities.
First: get rid of quantities:
Linen = Coat is the basis equation.
Two qualities do not play the same part, only linen value is expressed.
Coat: mode of existence of value
By making the coat equivalent to linen, we equate labor embodied in the former to the later.
Abstract value, abstract human labor.
Human labor creates value but itself not value. It is only value in congealed state when embodied in the form of some object.
To express linen as congealation fo human labor, it need to be separated from linen but common to linen and other commodities.
Coat fits this. It as a body that is value.Coat officiate as the form of value.
As use value, they are different. As value, they are the same.
Bodily form of B becomes the value form of A. Bodily form of B acts as a mirror to the value of A.
A convert B into its own value.
b.Quantitative determination of relative value.

A given quantity contains a definite human labor.
Value form doesnt only express value but also in quantity.
Value changes constantly.
Nothing changes as much as value.
When add quantity in we know: THE relative value of a commodity can vary though its value remains constant.
Real change in magnitude of value are neither unequivocally nor exhaustively expressed in it relative expression.
Its relative value may remain constant though its value varies.
3. The equivalent form of value.
A commodity in equivalent form, we say: it can directly exchange for other commodities.
The value of coast is determined, independently of its value form, by labor.
Two coats do not express the quantity of their value.
When a commodity acts as a equivalent, no quantitative determination is expressed.
In expression of the value of commodities, a relation of equality