The professional craftsman is first and foremost a city-dweller; few villages or small towns can supply him with enough customers to support himself. Unlike peasants and poorer city-dwellers, artisans often have significant political rights as a consequence of guild membership. For most artisans, this means something like a preferred legal position and the right to vote. Artisans also have responsibilities. Specifically, they face disciplinary action from their guild if they sell substandard merchandise, must pay dues and special taxes, and must bring up the next generation of craftsmen. An artisan usually supports not just his family, but also a handful of apprentices.