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On the minimum wage
On the minimum wage, the economy is a complex thing; the obvious solution to a problem is not always the best solution. Capitalism works because everyone is free to make their own decisions about what work to do and how much money they will accept for their efforts. The economy is just too complex for any planned solutions. But, pure capitalism produces winners and losers and does not provide fairness for many people. In the long run capitalism would produce the best solution; but, the long run is just too long relative to the life expectancy of humans. Therefore, we must use our intelligence to impose rules to promote fairness.
It was observed a long time ago that the poor would always be with us. There will always be a bottom ten percent of the wage earners - simple math. Raising the minimum wage will not change the math; it will just cause inflation!
The way to ensure that workers at the bottom of the wage scale earn a living wage is to use the progressive income tax system to try and level the playing field for all workers. Intelligence, good luck, and rules the successful use to protect their monopoly position ensure high wages for some. Environment, lower skill level and bad luck ensure low wages for others.
Our government tries to provide justice by subsidizing low income earners. This seems to be the best course to the just society. Rather then complain about high income taxes for high income earners, we should celebrate their success in the economic game of life. I for one enjoy paying a higher income tax. It means I am one of the winners in the game. The only thing I ask is that the money be used wisely.
Bottom line; do not raise the minimum wage. Do fund services for the working poor from the progressive income tax. Do not fund welfare. Do ensure that anyone who wants a job will get one in a short time period - say one week. This would be in everyone's best interest.