Quote:
Originally Posted by MissMisa
It's not the same in all cases. This kind of discrimination still goes on, whether some cases are different or not. There will always be undeniably some kind of discrimination between women and mens pay, regardless of other cases where people may claim it's 'justified.' One case is enough.
|
One case is enough for what? For a massive intervention in the workings of the free-market economy?
I'm all in favor of equal pay for equal work. In fact, Japan's failure to put its highly educated, talented female workforce to better use is one of its most calamitous missed opportunities. Women graduate at the top of their classes from elite universities -- join big keiretsu firms -- and pour tea. Shocking.
But before you jump, it's important to consider:
1) Are you comparing jobs that are really the same? Is one more stressful than the other? More dangerous? More arduous? Comes with heavier responsibility?
2) When women want better pay and promotions, do they ask for them in the way men do?
3) Is she in it to win it, or will she quit when a husband comes along? (This is especially nettlesome --
assuming that women will quit early doesn't make it so.)
The studies I have seen give the lie to the often repeated refrain that "women get paid less for the same work." In fact, at least in the United States, women make less money
period. Mainly because they shun dangerous or arduous jobs. Also they have the option of retiring at age 25 (i.e. housewife) -- an option you may or may not like, but it's not available to men.
Complicated.