Just Wages: The Law and Morality

Abstract

“A job — even full‐time employment — is no sure escape from poverty”. Thus begins a book that goes on to say that beyond the first tragedy of unemployment lies the serious problem for many that rewards for work can be insufficient to live a decent life. This article will reflect on some of the major issues in this subject area. First, a look must be taken at what is meant by a “just wage”. A number of difficulties arise in the definition of “justice” and “wages”. Second, the question of what should be promulgated by law to further just wages should be investigated. What does the law require or what should it require of the wage contract? Finally, what recommendation is feasible to alleviate this problem for those who are working full time but not earning a living wage?

Citation

Carrica, J.L. (1986), "Just Wages: The Law and Morality", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 13 No. 9, pp. 17-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb014022