---
entity_slug: prodigals
entity_type: Element
vsm_system: S3
type_rationale: Prodigals are economic actors who persist as a distinct category of
  agents in Smith's framework, representing a type of person rather than an activity
  or rule.
vsm_rationale: Prodigals operate within the resource allocation system by misallocating
  borrowed capital away from productive uses, making their primary impact on the management
  of economic resources.
classified_at: '2026-02-23T11:22:19.955991'
---

# Classification: Prodigals

## Entity Type

Element

## VSM System

S3

## Type Rationale

Prodigals are economic actors who persist as a distinct category of agents in Smith's framework, representing a type of person rather than an activity or rule.

## VSM Rationale

Prodigals operate within the resource allocation system by misallocating borrowed capital away from productive uses, making their primary impact on the management of economic resources.