The debate on addressing the gender wage gap revolves around two perspectives: one advocating for policies to close the gap as a crucial solution to societal inequities and economic loss, especially through measures like universal childcare and maternity/paternity cover. The opposing view suggests that the market accurately reflects individual choices and values, emphasizing that efforts to address the wage gap through policy might result in failure as it goes against economic principles. Despite the differing opinions, both sides agree that the issue requires further examination to find effective solutions beyond the current impasse.
American women are, on average, paid 84 cents for every dollar men make, according to the Department of Labor. This wage gap has persisted despite near-record rates of women’s participation in the labor market, with wage gaps even larger for women in minority populations, and it’s estimated that pay parity will not be achieved until 2052. Should policy interventions address these disparities, or is it more important to recognize and honor women's personal decisions and find another way to look at the gap Those in favor of fixing the gap see it as a point of fairness and equity that would bring economic benefits, such as enhanced family incomes and increased productivity, and say that new policies are needed urgently to dismantle systemic barriers stopping women from earning more. Those who aren’t in favor argue wage disparities reflect individual choices regarding career paths, work-life balance, and tenure, rather than systemic discrimination. They also point out that when adjusted for factors like job type, hours worked, and career breaks, the gap significantly narrows.
Against this backdrop, we debate the question: Should We Address the Gender Wage Gap?
Arguing Yes: Kadie Ward, Commissioner and Chief Administrative Officer of the Pay Equity Commission of Ontario
Arguing No: Allison Schrager, Pension Economist, Bloomberg Opinion Contributor & Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute
Nayeema Raza, Journalist at New York Magazine and Vox, is the guest moderator.
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