by Kevin Pack

Created on: March 31, 2009   Last Updated: April 01, 2009

To clarify this debate, at least with relation to my argument, the majority of people currently employed are not overpaid. Moreover, to suggest that they are over compensated is, on a global scale (as the question was asked in regards to people, not those specific to the US) cruel and inhumane. People in third world country make only a few cents a day, if that, and still work hours on end. However, I am going to assume that other respondents were referencing people who work within the US, and therefore, once again, declare that people are not ovepaid.

To say otherwise is counterituitive in the sense that we live in an idea based society which does and should value intelligent work, not mereley physical labor. Therefore, if a person has found a way to maximize his or her compensation, they are not to blame. The system through which they are paid is responsible for not monitoring the efficiency of the an individuals productivity compared to his or her compensation. If these factors are indeed unbalanced, then it should be reflected (depending on the type of employment) when expenditures, revenues, and profits are anlyzed. This would stem from another aspect of our economies foundation, and that is consumerism. Inevitably, it falls to the consumer to use money how they see fit. This factor inherently prohibits people from being over paid, as their income is generally correlated to consumer spending in one way or another. If people were overpaid, then the cost of goods would cosequently exceed the price that consumers are willing to pay. Of course, I am oversimplifying this concept, however, there is one brief thought worht noting about the question itself. That is, how can the "majority" be overpaid? Isn't the "majority" supposed to be reflect the standard, and if so, why would the standard pay be deemed as to high?

Additionally, there is an argument to be made that many positions are underpaid, however, this does not directly relate with the present debate, as employment is not a zero sum game.

If you think someone is overpaid, and you feel that you are as qualified, why would you not put yourself in a position in which you are paid similarly? If this is difficult to do, why do you assume it was easy for them? This applies to a large portion of occupations, if someone is paid more, they did something right. Everyone that has replied to this question has some form of internet access, as well as a computer that they can use, chances are, you have more then you need.

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>