Who disputes the value of work? What I will point out is that "full employment" is not the objective of the employers in a capitalist economy, but only that level of employment which benefits them. How many millions are desperately seeking work while corporate cash sits idly at record levels? And what of those who are physically and mentally incapable of meeting the demand of an employer, never mind the aged? Not only did Cicero NOT say this, but he did say "Let the welfare of the people be the ultimate law." If you believe this quote has something meaningful to say, better that you examine your motives for searching for meaning where there is none than inflict your unwillingness to see reality on the rest of us.