In this debate, it is posited that the process of accumulation uses "human energies” as merchandise, while housework reproduces these energies as part of a process that constitutes an integral component of the development of the members of the household. From the external perspective of the household, these energies are diverted from the reproduction of human beings to the production of merchandise. From the internal perspective of households, the production of merchandise is a means to an end, which is reproduction (Picchio, 2003).