Question

The idea of a wage gap between men and women is prevalent in modern society, given that on average women make less than 80% of men’s wages. Is this gap the result of choices made by men and women alike, is it due to discrimination, or is a combination of both? Explain.

(if any sources are used (they are not required), they need to be correctly cited)

Answer 1

Today, In the modern society wage gap still exists. We are grown up but still we follow the traditional practices. Wage gap refers to the difference between wage and salary of men and women even if they are doing similar work. In the developed country like USA this gap still exists. There are several arguments and factors which give the reasons for such gaps.

People say that women are not able to negotiate for their salary and that is why they are paid less. Whereas men can negotiate easily and that is why they get more than women.

Moreover, women take maternity leaves for around 6 months and they work less than men in a year and that is why they are paid less.

They choose flexible work hours like part time job and man are full time employees that is why they are paid more.

Therefore there can be several reasons for wage gap. According to the question, gap is the result of combination of both choices made by them and discrimination. But majorly the practice for discrimination dominates the arguments. Discrimination is everywhere and in case of wage gap, it is considered that women lose their productivity when they become mother and they have less career opportunities than men. However men's productivity remains same all the time. Moreover society consideres women as less previlaged and men are considered superior to them that is why they are not given equal rights. Choices to work also effects the difference. Women are considered more productive as an teacher or similar works. This practice is more common in labour market.

Therefore, there are several factors which causes wage gap between men and women. Some are due to the mindset of the society and some factors have practical explanations but wage gap is harmful for the economy. It causes inequality and reduces the output of the country. Now, this trend is probably going to change as women are becoming more educated they fight for their rights. Moreover Government has made several laws which protect them from such discriminations .