Why Do High School Dropouts Expect a $15 Hourly Wage?
The belief among some high school dropouts that they deserve a $15 hourly wage can stem from several factors. Understanding these factors can help in addressing the broader economic and social trends contributing to this expectation.
Cost of Living
In many areas, the cost of living has risen significantly, making $15 an hour essential for affording basic necessities such as housing, food, and transportation. The higher cost of living can create a perception that a higher wage is necessary for survival.
Labor Market Dynamics
There has been a growing demand for low-wage workers in various sectors, particularly in retail and service industries. This demand can lead individuals to feel entitled to higher wages even without a diploma. The push for a $15 minimum wage in many regions, particularly through movements like the Fight for $15, has also influenced public perception concerning fair wages.
Perception of Skills
Some dropouts may believe that the skills they possess – whether from work experience or informal education – warrant higher wages. They might feel that their practical experience in the workforce is just as valuable as formal education, thus justifying a higher wage.
Social Movements
The push for a higher minimum wage has played a significant role in influencing public perception. These social movements have encouraged the belief that workers, regardless of their educational attainment, deserve a living wage. The Fight for $15 campaign, in particular, has highlighted the importance of fair wages and tackled the issue of income inequality.
Equity and Fairness
There is a growing recognition of income inequality, leading to a belief that all workers deserve a living wage. Moreover, societal values are shifting, with less stigma attached to dropping out of high school and more emphasis placed on the need for a living wage due to personal circumstances.
Challenges and Misconceptions
Some argue that believing in a $15 hourly wage is unfair, citing that it is just a buck above minimum wage and that such jobs are often performed by individuals who avoid lower-paying jobs. Another common perception is that the left has indoctrinated people to think they deserve higher wages simply for existing. However, the reality is that wages are a reflection of the value of one's skill set in the labor market, not a reflection of their worth as a human being.
The belief that higher wages are deserved without reflecting the value of one's skills can be troubling. Employers pay what the market can bear based on the skills required. Incrementing wages to $15 an hour without a proportional increase in skill or productivity can lead to unsustainable business practices and could hinder economic growth. Riling up poor, unskilled people by arguing that they are not valued as human beings is just a way to invoke emotions without addressing the core issues of sustainable economic policies.
In conclusion, the expectation for higher wages among high school dropouts reflects broader economic and social trends as well as individual circumstances. Understanding these factors can help in finding practical solutions to ensure fair wages while promoting economic sustainability and social equity.